Decoding Merchant Cash Advances in New York: A Legal Overview

February 28, 2024

A Legal Overview of Merchant Cash Advances in New York

An aerial view of a city with lots of buildings in black and white.

New York, a bustling hub of financial activity, presents a unique landscape for  Merchant Cash Advances  (MCAs). Despite being a favored environment for MCAs, the state has pioneered laws that impose consumer-like disclosures for specific commercial loans. This article delves into the legal intricacies surrounding MCAs in New York, shedding light on the Commercial Finance Disclosure Law (CFDL), its implications, and crucial considerations for businesses and MCA providers.

Commercial Finance Disclosure Law (CFDL)


The CFDL in New York, effective since August 1, 2023, extends disclosure requirements, typically associated with consumer lending, to commercial financing instruments, including MCAs. Importantly, these regulations uniformly apply to both MCA brokers and funders.

Key Aspects of the CFDL


Bank Exception


MCA entities predominantly owned by a financial institution, especially a depository bank, are exempt from the CFDL. This exception underscores the significance of collaborations with FDIC-insured banks for MCA funders.


New York Nexus


The final rules define the geographical scope triggering the CFDL's applicability, narrowing it down to where a transaction occurs or the involved parties' location. This limitation helps in clarifying the jurisdiction for compliance.

MCA Recipient Location


The CFDL applies to transactions where the recipient is managed or directed from New York or is a resident of New York. Like in other states, relying on the business address provided by the recipient becomes a pivotal determinant.

Assignment and Broker Compensation Disclosure


The law allows MCA funders to assign their rights in the MCA contract. In cases involving a broker, the final rules mandate a clear written disclosure of how and by whom the broker will be compensated.

Finance Charge Calculation


The CFDL obligates the calculation and disclosure of the finance charge on a transaction, encompassing fees charged by the MCA funder for underwriting and origination.

SB 1235 and APR Disclosure


New York enacted SB 1235 ahead of the curve, requiring particular revelations for business financiers and MCA providers. Notably, the state distinguishes itself by requiring the disclosure of an Annual Percentage Rate (APR), departing from the previously used Annualized Cost of Capital (ACC). This disclosure is triggered whenever a rate, cost, or financing price is quoted based on information from a potential merchant recipient.

Legal Protections for New York Merchants


New York implemented laws on August 31, 2019, to safeguard merchants, prohibiting MCA funders from issuing a Confession of Judgment (COJ) to a New York resident and merchant. This proactive move aimed to prevent coercive practices and protect the rights of businesses utilizing MCAs.
Merchant Cash Advance Attorney NEW YORK J. Singer Law Group, PLLC, a New York Law Firm focusing on settling Merchant Cash Advance loans for clients across all 50 States and Merchant Cash Advance loans in NEW YORK.

Merchant Cash Advance Attorney in New York


J. Singer Law Group, PLLC, stands as an essential asset for enterprises navigating the Merchant Cash Advance (MCA) environment in New York. With expertise in resolving MCA loans nationwide, the legal firm aids clients in addressing issues such as ACH payments, personal guarantees, Confessions of Judgment (COJs), and other related challenges.
As the epicenter of finance, New York plays a pivotal role in the Merchant Cash Advance industry. Understanding and complying with the evolving legal landscape is crucial for MCA funders and businesses seeking capital. J. Singer Law Group, PLLC, stands as a guiding force, helping companies to navigate the complexities and solve MCA-related challenges in New York and beyond.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy in New York
March 10, 2026
Learn who qualifies for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in New York, the typical timeline, exemptions that protect assets, and how J. Singer Law Group guides you through every step.
Chapter 13 vs Chapter 7
March 5, 2026
Understand how Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 can stop foreclosure, including cramdown, redemption, and the automatic stay. Learn which bankruptcy strategy can help save your home.
Bankruptcy vs. Debt Settlement vs. Lawsuits
March 3, 2026
Compare bankruptcy, debt settlement, and litigation defense to choose the right debt relief path. Learn outcomes, timelines, risks, and red flags before creditors take action.
Chapter 11 Bankruptcy for Small Businesses
February 26, 2026
Is Chapter 11 right for your small business? Learn the pros and cons, key steps in reorganization, and how J. Singer Law Group helps preserve value and ongoing operations.
Merchant Cash Advance Defense
February 24, 2026
Fight predatory merchant cash advance contracts. Learn legal defenses, stop aggressive MCA collections, and protect your business.
how Chapter 13 bankruptcy works
February 18, 2026
Learn how Chapter 13 bankruptcy works, how repayment plans are structured, and when Chapter 13 is better than Chapter 7. Discover how homeowners and wage earners can stop foreclosure and reorganize debt.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Filing in New York
February 12, 2026
Filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy in New York can erase qualifying debts and stop collections fast. Learn eligibility rules, the NY filing process, exemptions, and what to expect after discharge.
Merchant Cash Advance Settlement
February 5, 2026
To negotiate a merchant cash advance settlement, you must first stop automatic withdrawals, understand your contract terms, assess legal risks, and communicate through a structured settlement proposal. Working with an MCA defense attorney can improve leverage and reduce personal exposure.
find a law firm specializing in MCA defense
February 2, 2026
To find a law firm specializing in MCA defense, look for attorneys who focus on merchant cash advance litigation, regularly challenge MCA contracts, understand New York enforcement tactics, and have experience vacating judgments, stopping bank restraints, and negotiating favorable resolutions.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Income Limits
January 19, 2026
Chapter 7 bankruptcy income limits are based on the means test, which compares your household income to your state’s median income. If your income is below the median, you typically qualify. If it is above, additional expense calculations may still allow eligibility.