MCA field guide
Restricted industries by MCA lender
How to research industry restrictions without treating a generic list as a permanent lender policy.
Quick answer
Industry restrictions are lender- and product-specific. Classify the merchant precisely with its real business model and SIC or NAICS context, then confirm the dated lender policy.
Restrictions are lender-specific and change
Commonly restricted categories can include gambling, adult businesses, firearms, cannabis, financial services, nonprofits, transportation segments, and businesses with regulatory or receivables complications. The exact policy varies by lender and product.
Classify the merchant precisely
A broad label can route a file incorrectly. Include the actual business model, NAICS or SIC when known, licensing, revenue source, and whether the merchant operates in a related but distinct category.
Confirm before submitting sensitive data
Use the lender profile’s dated restriction record as a starting point, then confirm the current policy. Lender List shows unknown restrictions as unknown rather than assuming every unlisted industry is eligible.
Practical checklist
- Describe the merchant’s actual product or service.
- Identify primary and secondary revenue sources.
- Record SIC or NAICS when known.
- Check licensing and regulatory exposure.
- Review both lender and product restrictions.
- Confirm ambiguous categories directly before submission.
Common questions
Does an industry missing from a restriction list mean it is eligible?
No. A missing field is unknown, and lists may be illustrative rather than exhaustive.
Why include SIC and NAICS?
They provide a shared classification reference, but the business model and lender interpretation still matter.
Do restrictions change?
Yes. Programs, capital partners, states, and risk appetite can change. Check the source date.
Primary sources and context
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau — Small business lending rule FAQsOfficial federal context for merchant cash advances and sales-based financing.
- U.S. Census Bureau — North American Industry Classification SystemOfficial reference for NAICS industry classification.
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.