Payroll is due and receivables haven't landed? Payroll funding bridges the gap fast—so your team gets paid on time. Here are the best options, what they cost, and how to fund before your next pay run.
Yes—covering payroll is one of the most common reasons businesses borrow. When payday arrives before your receivables clear, short-term working capital, a line of credit, or revenue-based financing can bridge the gap and fund within 1-3 business days. Because lenders focus on your revenue and deposits, you can usually qualify even with imperfect credit.
Payroll gaps are usually about timing, not trouble. The common scenarios:
Customers pay net-30 or net-60, but payday is weekly or biweekly. Bridge the gap until invoices clear.
Slow months still require staff. Cover payroll through the off-season and repay when demand returns.
You've hired ahead of revenue to fulfill new contracts—fund payroll until the new income ramps.
Staffing up to deliver a large order before the first payment arrives.
A delayed payment, an emergency, or a revenue dip created a single-cycle shortfall.
Keeping good people paid on time preserves morale and avoids costly turnover.
| Option | Best for | Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Short-term working capital | A one-time payroll gap | 1-3 days |
| Business line of credit | Recurring/seasonal payroll—draw & reuse | 1-7 days to set up |
| Revenue-based financing | Strong sales, flexible repayment | 1-5 days |
| Invoice factoring | Cash stuck in unpaid invoices | 1-5 days |
| Merchant cash advance | Card-heavy businesses needing cash now | 1-2 days |
Calculate exactly what you need for this pay run plus a small buffer—don't over-borrow.
Working capital for a one-time gap, or a line of credit for recurring payroll needs.
Submit with 3-6 months of bank statements to reach multiple lenders. Decisions often in hours.
Accept the best offer; funds often arrive in 1-3 business days—in time for payroll.
Yes—it's one of the most common uses of financing. Short-term working capital, lines of credit, and revenue-based financing all cover payroll and can fund in 1-3 business days.
For a one-time gap, short-term working capital is simplest. For recurring or seasonal swings, a line of credit is best—draw only what you need and reuse it.
Many options decide within hours and fund in 1-3 business days, sometimes the same day. Apply early with bank statements ready and respond quickly.
Often yes—these products lean on revenue over score. See business loans for bad credit.
Not necessarily—healthy businesses regularly bridge timing gaps. The key is that the gap is temporary and your cash flow can service the loan. A line of credit set up in advance prevents the scramble.
Don't let a timing gap put payday at risk. Submit one application and we'll match you with fast-funding lenders who can help you cover payroll—often within 1-3 business days.