Commercial finance for UK businesses
Help Centre

Frequently asked questions.

Explore answers to common questions about business funding and applications.

HELP CENTRE YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

A little more clarity.
A lot more confidence.

Explore practical answers about business finance, eligibility and the application process.

General questions

How long should my business be trading to be eligible for a Merchant Cash Advance or a Business Loan?

A business generally needs to be trading for 3 to 4 months for a Merchant Cash Advance, and 6 to 12 months for a traditional business loan.

Is it necessary for the director/owner to be a homeowner to qualify for the working capital?

No, it is not necessary for a business director or owner to be a homeowner to qualify for working capital finance. Both unsecured working capital loans and alternative funding facilities (such as invoice finance or merchant cash advances) do not require property ownership.

Hello Nucleus is not FCA regulated?

Since our services are not considered a regulated activity, the Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate them. However, Hello Nucleus only works with lenders that are approved and overseen by the Financial Conduct Authority to give you peace of mind.

Who called me from 01204 257233?

If you have been contacted by 01204 257233, we have tried to get in touch to see whether you require business funding. Please contact us online or give us a call at 01204 257233 if you would like your preferences to be modified. We acquire phone numbers from Credit Reference Agencies, business directories and business service providers.

Do you provide finance outside the UK?

Unfortunately, Hello Nucleus can only arrange finance for businesses registered and operating in the UK.

Can I change my accounting period for tax purposes?

You can alter your accounting period for tax reasons in the UK by informing HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in writing, providing a legitimate reason. It's crucial to adhere to HMRC regulations and consider seeking professional guidance to effectively manage the process.

Can I use a Merchant Cash Advance or a Business Loan to pay off existing debts?

Yes, working capital loans can be used to consolidate or pay off existing debts, helping improve cash flow and manage financial obligations.

Applications & funding

How long does it take to receive the funds?

Funds for a Merchant Cash Advance typically arrive within 24 to 48 hours of approval, while a traditional business loan takes 4 to 5 business days; however, a short-term business loan could be arranged the same day, with the maximum within 72 hours upon approval.

Do you charge us for processing our business application?

Hello, Nucleus is an independent commercial finance brokerage and credit broker, not a lender. We collaborate with a panel of lenders to identify suitable financing options for your needs. If you choose a lender, we may earn a commission for connecting you. We only profit if we successfully secure the funds you require.

What is the application process like?

Hello, Nucleus can assist you throughout the application process. After discussing your needs and collecting your business documents, we can save you time by completing proposals and applications on your behalf. The only documents we require are: six months of business bank statements in PDF format, a copy of your most recent full filed accounts—including the profit and loss statement and the balance sheet—that are no more than 15 months old, or alternatively, the management accounts.

Are there any restrictions on how I can use the funds from a Merchant Cash Advance or a Business Loan?

A cash flow loan can be utilised for various investments in your business that enhance its future profitability and security. You may invest in equipment, inventory, training, or marketing to elevate your business. Additionally, it can serve to cover the gaps during cash flow challenges.

Credit & eligibility

Can I get finance for my business if I have a CCJ?

The answer is yes, though it may present additional challenges. A County Court Judgment (CCJ) can influence a lender’s assessment of risk, as they prioritise repayment assurance. We acknowledge that businesses can experience financial fluctuations and cash flow difficulties. While a CCJ is a serious matter, it does not automatically preclude access to commercial finance. Lenders typically review credit records as part of their evaluation process, and some may require applicants to be free of CCJs.

What is a CCJ?

A CCJ is a court order in the UK registered against an individual or business that fails to repay owed debts. If a creditor seeks to recover outstanding funds, they can apply to the County Court for a judgment. Following review, the court may issue a CCJ, mandating repayment. Unless the CCJ is settled in full within 30 days, it is recorded on the Register of Judgments, Orders and Fines and remains on the credit file for six years.

Can I apply for a Merchant Cash Advance or a Business Loan if my business has a low credit score?

Indeed, it’s possible to seek a cash flow loan even if you have a low credit score. In contrast to conventional loans, cash flow loans depend on your capability to demonstrate that your business maintains robust cash flow, which is utilized to evaluate the terms of the loan.

What financing options are available for small businesses with a poor credit score?

Traditional financing options may be difficult for small businesses with bad credit, but there are other options. For instance, the terms of a Merchant Cash Advance or a Business Loan are determined by a sound cash flow history rather than credit history. For small businesses with a short credit history, this makes it an ideal choice as well.

Rates & borrowing

How long will I be paying the finance?

Terms are available between 6 months and 6 years. Options available to you may be dependent on the circumstances of your business, but the final choice is up to you.

Isn't it cheaper just to go to a lender directly?

Many believe that going direct saves money, but it often results in higher costs over time. Working with us is smarter and more economical because, although banks provide various rates, they frequently decline certain purchases and reject businesses in specific industries due to strict lending criteria. At Hello Nucleus, we collaborate with a panel of lenders, including specialists, offering diverse options and improving your chances of approval. We may secure rates that are unavailable to direct applicants, and we can review the entire lending market efficiently, saving you time. Our access to exclusive specialist lenders allows us to assemble tailored finance packages from multiple sources, ensuring competitive rates and a higher likelihood of approval. We have over 14 years of experience collaborating with various lenders and brokers. This experience enables us to reduce execution time and effectively meet your needs.

What are the minimum and maximum amounts I can borrow?

Your borrowing capacity largely depends on your personal situation and your business's trading history. Similar to a mortgage, the size of your business can also influence the available finance. Generally, we provide finance agreements starting from about £5,000 up to roughly £2,000,000.

What are your rates?

Each business interest rates vary based on factors like trading history, credit rating, director credit background, company turnover, loan amount, and intended use of funds. For customers with excellent credit, starting rates include: Asset / Equipment Finance at 5.9%, Bridging Loan at 6.36%, Growth Guarantee Scheme Asset Finance at 6.49%, while secured business loans range from about 3% to 5.9% per annum for asset-backed or equipment finance. Major banks usually offer unsecured term loans starting around 7.2%. Commercial mortgage rates generally start from 4.2% to 5.5%, with most prime owner-occupied deals near 5.5% to 6.0%. Invoice financing begins at approximately 5.0% to 5.5%, while short-term loans start at 12.3%, and Flexi-Loans at 13.2%. Merchant cash advance rates start from a 1.15% factor rate, with a 14% card split.

Information is general and subject to lender criteria. Finance availability, terms and timescales can vary.

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