5 Things Lenders Look at Besides Your Credit Score

Most business owners assume their credit score is the deciding factor when applying for capital. The truth is, lenders — especially alternative lenders and MCA providers — look at a much broader picture. Here are five factors that often matter more than your score.

1. Monthly Revenue

Your average monthly revenue tells lenders how much cash is flowing through your business. For merchant cash advances and revenue-based financing, this is typically the primary underwriting factor. Consistent revenue of $15,000–$25,000/month or more opens doors that credit scores alone cannot.

2. Time in Business

Longevity matters. A business that has been operating for 12–24 months demonstrates stability and resilience. Many alternative lenders require a minimum of 6 months in operation, but 12+ months significantly improves your options and the quality of terms you'll receive.

3. Industry Type

Some industries are considered higher risk than others — restaurants, retail, and entertainment may face higher factor rates than healthcare, construction, or professional services. Understanding how your industry is perceived helps you set realistic expectations and choose the right funding product.

4. Bank Statement Health

Lenders closely review 3–6 months of business bank statements. They look for consistent deposits, low rates of non-sufficient funds (NSFs), positive average daily balances, and the absence of other outstanding merchant cash advances. Clean bank statements can compensate for a lower credit score in many cases.

5. Existing Debt Obligations

If you already have outstanding advances or loans, lenders will assess your debt service coverage — whether your revenue can comfortably support another payment. Multiple stacked positions can reduce your eligibility or result in less favorable terms.

The CBC Advantage

At Conscious Business Capital, we look at your full business profile — not just a three-digit number. If you've been turned down by traditional lenders, we may still be able to structure a solution that works. Contact us to find out what you qualify for today.