What is invoice finance?

Invoice finance is a financial solution that allows businesses to release cash tied up in unpaid invoices, improving cash flow and helping manage expenses.

How does invoice finance work?

With invoice finance, a lender advances a percentage of the invoice value upfront. Once the customer pays the invoice, the remaining balance, minus fees, is released to the business.

What types of invoice finance are available?

The two main types are factoring, where the lender manages the invoice collection, and discounting, where the business retains control over collections.

Who can benefit from invoice finance?

Invoice finance is ideal for businesses with regular invoicing and longer payment terms, helping them avoid cash flow gaps caused by late payments.

Are there risks associated with invoice finance?

Risks include the cost of fees, potential impact on customer relationships if factoring is used, and dependency on reliable customers to settle invoices.

What is a finance lease?

A finance lease is a type of leasing arrangement where a business rents equipment or assets for a specified period, with the option to purchase at the end of the lease term.

How does a finance lease work?

The leasing company purchases the equipment on behalf of the business, which then makes fixed monthly payments. At the end of the lease, the business may buy the equipment, return it, or extend the lease.

What are the benefits of finance leases?

Finance leases allow businesses to acquire necessary equipment without large upfront costs, preserve cash flow, and potentially gain tax benefits.

Who is eligible for a finance lease?

Eligibility varies by lender, but businesses with steady revenue, a clear repayment plan, and good credit history are generally eligible.

What is the difference between a finance lease and an operating lease?

A finance lease typically involves eventual ownership of the asset, while an operating lease is more like renting, with no ownership transfer at the end.

What is bridging finance?

Bridging finance is a short-term loan designed to 'bridge the gap' between a financial need and longer-term funding solutions, commonly used for property development projects.

How does bridging finance work?

Bridging finance provides quick access to funds secured against a property. Borrowers typically repay the loan within 12 months, often through the sale or refinancing of the property.

Who can benefit from bridging finance?

Property developers, investors, and businesses that need fast funding for projects such as property purchases, refurbishments, or new developments can benefit from bridging finance.

What are the advantages of bridging finance?

Advantages include quick access to funds, flexibility in repayment terms, and the ability to seize time-sensitive property opportunities.

What are the risks of using bridging finance?

Risks include higher interest rates compared to traditional loans, short repayment periods, and the possibility of losing the secured property if the loan is not repaid.

What is a semi-commercial mortgage?

A semi-commercial mortgage is a type of property loan designed for properties used for both residential and commercial purposes, such as flats above shops or mixed-use buildings.

How do I find the best semi-commercial mortgage lender?

To find the best lender, research options online, compare interest rates and terms, and consult a broker who specializes in semi-commercial mortgages for tailored advice.

What are the eligibility criteria for a semi-commercial mortgage?

Eligibility depends on factors such as the property's value, your credit history, the business’s financial performance, and the percentage of commercial versus residential use.

What are the benefits of a semi-commercial mortgage?

Benefits include access to financing for mixed-use properties, flexible repayment options, and potentially better rates compared to separate residential and commercial loans.

What are the risks of a semi-commercial mortgage?

Risks include higher interest rates compared to standard residential mortgages, potential challenges with property valuation, and the complexity of mixed-use property regulations.

What is a business loan?

A business loan is a type of financing designed to help businesses cover expenses, expand, or manage cash flow by borrowing funds from a lender.

How do I apply for a business loan?

To apply for a business loan, prepare necessary documents such as financial statements, a business plan, and proof of revenue. Submit these to the lender along with your application form.

What types of business loans are available?

Common types of business loans include term loans, lines of credit, invoice financing, merchant cash advances, and equipment financing.

Can I get a business loan with bad credit?

Yes, some lenders specialize in providing business loans to applicants with bad credit, though the terms and interest rates may vary.

What are the benefits of business loans?

Business loans provide funds to help grow your business, improve cash flow, purchase equipment, or invest in new opportunities.

What is invoice factoring?

Invoice factoring is a financial service that allows businesses to sell their unpaid invoices to a third party, known as a factoring company, to receive immediate cash.

How does invoice factoring work?

Businesses submit their unpaid invoices to a factoring company, which advances a percentage of the invoice value upfront. Once the invoices are paid by the customers, the remaining amount is forwarded, minus the factoring fee.

Who can benefit from invoice factoring?

Invoice factoring is ideal for businesses with consistent invoicing and customers who take longer payment terms, helping them maintain cash flow without waiting for payments.

What are the advantages of invoice factoring?

Advantages include improved cash flow, reduced waiting time for payments, and the ability to focus on growing the business instead of chasing overdue invoices.

Are there risks associated with invoice factoring?

Risks include the cost of factoring fees, potential impacts on customer relationships, and the need to ensure invoices are not disputed to avoid delays or penalties.

What is a small business loan?

A small business loan is a type of funding designed specifically to help small businesses cover various expenses such as cash flow, expansion, or equipment purchases.

How can I qualify for a small business loan?

To qualify for a small business loan, you'll typically need a solid business plan, financial statements, good credit, and proof of consistent revenue. Requirements may vary by lender.

What are the types of small business loans available?

Common types of small business loans include term loans, lines of credit, invoice financing, and merchant cash advances. Each type is tailored to specific business needs.

How long does it take to get approved for a small business loan?

Approval times vary by lender and loan type. Traditional banks may take weeks, while online lenders can approve applications within a few days.

Can I get a small business loan with bad credit?

Yes, some lenders specialize in providing loans to businesses with bad credit, though terms and interest rates may be less favorable. Demonstrating strong cash flow can improve your chances.

What is commercial property finance?

Commercial property finance provides funding for businesses to purchase, refinance, or develop commercial real estate such as offices, warehouses, or retail spaces.

How does commercial property finance work?

This type of financing works by providing a loan secured against the commercial property. Businesses make regular repayments until the loan is fully paid.

Who is eligible for commercial property finance?

Eligibility depends on factors like credit history, business revenue, property valuation, and the purpose of the loan. Lenders often require a deposit or equity contribution.

What are the benefits of commercial property finance?

Benefits include access to funding for business expansion, potential tax advantages, and the opportunity to own valuable assets that can appreciate over time.

What risks are involved in commercial property finance?

Risks include fluctuating property values, potential difficulty in meeting repayments during economic downturns, and the possibility of losing the property if the loan terms are not met.

What is commercial vehicle leasing?

Commercial vehicle leasing is a financial arrangement that allows businesses to use vehicles without owning them outright, paying fixed monthly fees over a specified period.

How does hire purchase finance work for vehicles?

Hire purchase finance allows businesses to acquire vehicles by making an initial deposit followed by regular payments. Ownership is transferred once all payments are completed.

What are the advantages of vehicle leasing for businesses?

Advantages include lower upfront costs, predictable monthly payments, and the ability to upgrade to newer vehicles at the end of the lease term.

Can I lease commercial vehicles with bad credit?

Yes, some providers specialize in offering vehicle leasing to businesses with poor credit. However, terms and rates may vary based on your credit profile.

Is hire purchase better than leasing?

Hire purchase is better if you want eventual ownership of the vehicle, while leasing is ideal for those looking to minimize costs and avoid long-term ownership commitments.

How can I download my bank statements online?

You can download your bank statements by logging into your online banking account, navigating to the statements section, and selecting the desired period to download.

What formats are bank statements available in?

Bank statements are typically available in PDF format, but some banks may also offer CSV or Excel formats for download.

Can I download bank statements from a mobile app?

Yes, many banks allow you to download statements directly from their mobile banking apps. Look for the 'Statements' or 'Documents' section within the app.

What should I do if I can't find my bank statements online?

If you can't locate your statements, contact your bank's customer service for assistance. They can guide you through the process or provide the statements manually.

Are downloaded bank statements valid for funding applications?

Yes, downloaded bank statements in PDF format are typically accepted for funding applications as they are official documents provided by the bank.

What is mezzanine finance?

Mezzanine finance is a hybrid funding option that combines elements of debt and equity financing, often used by businesses for expansion and growth.

Funding Options Blog

Home of our blog articles on topics that will inform and educate entrepreneurs on topics such as lending, green finance, tax and financial matters.

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Funding Options helps UK firms access business finance, working directly with businesses and their trusted advisors. We are a credit broker and do not provide loans ourselves. All finance and quotes are subject to status and income. Applicants must be aged 18 and over and terms and conditions apply. Guarantees and Indemnities may be required. Funding Options can introduce applicants to a number of providers based on the applicants' circumstances and creditworthiness. We are also able to make insurance introductions. Funding Options will receive a commission or finder’s fee for effecting such finance and insurance introductions.

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How to secure business finance

Starling Bank joins Funding Options’ lending panel

The Recovery Loan Scheme vs. Alt-Fi products

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What happens if I don’t have any funding options available to me?

Recovery Loan Scheme (RLS) vs. AltFi products – how do they compare?

3 practical tips for businesses reopening on 12 April

How can SMEs benefit from the super-deduction tax break?

Everything you need to know about the Recovery Loan Scheme

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