MCA field guide
How to compare MCA lenders using sourced criteria
A repeatable process for comparing fit, evidence quality, freshness, and submission route.
Quick answer
Compare lenders field by field, distinguish verified facts from third-party reports and unknowns, and record why each lender passed, failed, or needs manual review.
Separate confirmed, reported, and unknown
A lender-managed criterion, a third-party directory value, and a blank field do not carry the same evidentiary weight. Review source labels and dates before relying on a number.
Compare the whole buy box
Credit and revenue are only the visible starting point. Position, term, state, industry, time in business, ADB, NSFs, deposit count, ownership, maximum amount, and contact route can determine fit.
Document why each lender is on the list
A defensible routing list names the passed thresholds, failed thresholds, and remaining questions. That makes the list reviewable and prevents broad, low-quality submissions.
Practical checklist
- Start with current, dated sources.
- Compare all known hard thresholds.
- Keep unknown fields visible.
- Separate direct-lender products from marketplaces or brokers.
- Verify submission contact and partnership route.
- Save the reasoning behind the final routing list.
Common questions
Does more criteria automatically mean a better lender?
No. It means the profile is more complete, not that the lender or offer is better.
Are old criteria automatically wrong?
No. Accurate criteria do not expire merely because time passed, but older values should be reconfirmed.
What does Review mean in the matcher?
Known facts do not show a hard failure, but one or more required facts or lender rules remain unresolved.
Primary sources and context
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau — Small business lending rule FAQsOfficial federal context for merchant cash advances and sales-based financing.
Methodology and corrections
This guide distinguishes calculations, common industry practice, and lender-specific policy. Criteria should be confirmed from the dated source on each lender profile. Report an error through the correction policy.