Can You Consolidate MCA Loans?
Can You Consolidate MCA Loans?
If your business has taken out multiple merchant cash advances (MCAs), you're not alone—and you may be feeling the financial pressure. Many small business owners find themselves juggling multiple daily payments to different MCA funders, leading to cash flow issues and stress.
The question becomes: can you consolidate MCA loans? The answer is complicated—but there are some options available. This article will explain what MCA consolidation is, how it works, and why speaking with a qualified attorney is often a smart move.
What Is MCA Consolidation?
Merchant cash advance consolidation refers to the process of combining multiple MCAs into a single, more manageable repayment plan. The goal is to reduce your daily or weekly payment burden and regain control of your cash flow.
Since MCAs are technically not loans, but purchases of future receivables, traditional debt consolidation programs often don’t apply. That said, there are still a few potential avenues to consider.
Options for MCA Consolidation
1. Reverse Consolidation (or MCA Stacking Loan)
This is when a new funder provides a lump sum or line of credit to cover the daily payments owed to your existing MCA funders. In return, you agree to make a single daily payment to the new funder.
Pros:
- Immediate relief from multiple daily withdrawals
- Simplifies cash flow management
Cons:
- Typically comes with high fees and interest
- May create more long-term debt
- Doesn’t solve the root financial problem
In most cases, reverse consolidation just kicks the can down the road. It may delay default, but it rarely puts you on a path to long-term stability.
2. Traditional Debt Consolidation
Some business loan providers and banks offer actual debt consolidation loans, which may allow you to pay off MCA debts. These loans typically have:
- Longer repayment terms
- Lower interest rates than MCAs
- Fixed monthly payments
But here’s the challenge: Most banks won’t approve consolidation loans if you're already in MCA default or if your credit score is damaged from previous borrowing.
3. Negotiation and Settlement
If you’re already behind on MCA payments or facing legal threats, consolidation may not be possible—but negotiation is.
An experienced attorney can help you:
- Reduce the total amount owed through settlements
- Consolidate multiple debts into one agreement
- Stop lawsuits and vacate judgments
- Protect your personal and business assets
Negotiation is often the most practical solution for those already underwater with MCAs. It's especially effective if one or more of your agreements may be unenforceable due to usury, fraud, or other legal defects.
What About Bankruptcy?
If you’ve exhausted all other options, Chapter 11 for businesses or Chapter 7 or 13 for individuals may be your best path forward.
Bankruptcy can:
- Eliminate or restructure MCA debts
- Stop collections, lawsuits, and account levies
- Give you breathing room to rebuild
Bankruptcy is not a decision to make lightly, but it can provide a fresh start when no other consolidation options are viable.
Risks of Trying to Consolidate on Your Own
Many MCA lenders are aggressive, and consolidation attempts without legal backing can backfire. Some risks include:
- Default acceleration if funders suspect you’re moving money
- Frozen bank accounts if they initiate legal action
- Judgments entered without notice through confession of judgment clauses
- Personal guarantees that put your non-business assets at risk
Before applying for another advance or entering a new agreement, it’s wise to consult with a legal professional.
How a Lawyer Can Help
If you’re dealing with more than one MCA or already in default, an attorney can offer more than just advice—they can intervene on your behalf.
At J. Singer Law Group, we:
- Review your MCA agreements for illegal or abusive terms
- File motions to vacate judgments or stop collections
- Negotiate settlements that reduce or eliminate debt
- Represent you in court if you're being sued
- Advise you on whether bankruptcy is a better alternative
Our goal is to help you protect your business and your personal assets while creating a path out of debt.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I combine all my MCA loans into one?
Not always. While reverse consolidation options exist, they often come with high fees. Legal negotiation is usually more effective.
2. Is MCA consolidation legal?
Yes, but not all consolidation offers are reputable. Work with a licensed attorney or financial professional—not a “debt fixer” from an unsolicited email or call.
3. Will consolidating my MCAs hurt my credit?
If done correctly through negotiation or refinancing, your credit may recover faster. If you default first, your score may already be affected.
4. Can I go to jail for defaulting on MCA loans?
No. Defaulting on a business debt is a civil issue, not a criminal one. Any threats of arrest are scare tactics and may be illegal.
Merchant cash advances can feel like a lifeline at first—but for many business owners, they quickly turn into a trap. If you’re juggling multiple MCA loans, consolidation may offer temporary relief, but it’s rarely a long-term fix on its own.
Legal help can make all the difference. Whether you need negotiation, defense, or a full exit strategy, we’re here to help.
J. Singer Law Group helps New York business owners defend against predatory MCA lenders. If you're drowning in daily withdrawals or facing collection threats, schedule a free consultation today.
