Working Capital
Editorial Team
Business lending looks different in the digital marketplace. Entrepreneurs need financing that moves as quickly as their operations. Cardiff and Amazon Lending are online working capital loan providers striving to meet those needs, but with different focuses. Cardiff offers a comprehensive suite of funding options to businesses of all types. Amazon Lending finances inventory and growth for Amazon sellers through exclusive funding solutions.
This guide breaks down how each lender supports growth, from flexibility and approval speed to borrowing limits and accessibility. Whether you’re scaling an eCommerce storefront or managing cash flow for a growing enterprise, understanding how Cardiff and Amazon Lending differ can help you choose the best partner for your next stage of expansion.
Read on to compare working capital loan options across the product details.
Provider-Dependent: QuickBooks Capital offers term loans ranging from $1,500 to $200,000.6 Lendistry’s loan starts at $25,000.7 Uncapped offers credit lines and term loans up to 1.5 times the monthly recurring revenue.8
Flexible: Terms range from three months up to seven years, depending on the product (average ~39-month terms).2 Fixed or revenue-based payments may be daily, weekly, or monthly via ACH.3
Automatic: Link your bank or Amazon seller’s account for automatic deductions. Fixed payments on term loans up to five years, and a percentage of future sales for merchant cash advances.6
Competitive: Interest rates from 5.99% on secured loans. Short-term advances use a flat fee (factor rate) to calculate the total cost upfront. 2
Selective: Providers invite active Amazon marketplace sellers with growing sales and high customer ratings.6 Eligibility not based on credit or collateral.
Variety: Business credit cards, equipment financing, invoice financing, lines of credit, merchant cash advances, and term loans.1
Limited: Third-party lenders offer term loans (with fixed interest or fixed fees) and merchant cash advances for Amazon sellers.6
Scalable: Cardiff loans range from $5,000 to $500,000, with higher amounts possible on specialty loan products.1 Designed for small business needs.
Provider-Dependent: QuickBooks Capital offers term loans ranging from $1,500 to $200,000.6 Lendistry’s loan starts at $25,000.7 Uncapped offers credit lines and term loans up to 1.5 times the monthly recurring revenue.8
Fast: Online application with approvals in five minutes and funding same-day in many cases.2
Flexible: Terms range from three months up to seven years, depending on the product (average ~39-month terms).2 Fixed or revenue-based payments may be daily, weekly, or monthly via ACH.3
Automatic: Link your bank or Amazon seller’s account for automatic deductions. Fixed payments on term loans up to five years, and a percentage of future sales for merchant cash advances.6
Competitive: Interest rates from 5.99% on secured loans. Short-term advances use a flat fee (factor rate) to calculate the total cost upfront. 2
Fixed, but Private: Interest rates, capital fees, and fees are fixed at the beginning. Offers vary between products and providers.6 Compare invitations to market offers.
Broad: Available to most U.S. small businesses with no hard credit pulls for initial applications.4 Six months of operating history and revenue with no credit minimum for working capital products.5
Selective: Providers invite active Amazon marketplace sellers with growing sales and high customer ratings.6 Eligibility not based on credit or collateral.
Cardiff’s same-day Merchant Cash Advance (MCA) business loan provides business owners with working capital now in exchange for a percentage of future revenue.2 Approval is mainly based on business income and requires only minimal paperwork. Cardiff prefers companies with FICO ratings of 550 or higher, but they may offer advances between $5,000 and $500,000 without a minimum score or collateral.3
Merchant cash advance loans offer highly flexible repayments. You can remit a set percentage of your daily, weekly, or monthly sales, which adjusts your payment to your revenue. Cardiff also offers fixed payments for businesses that prefer a consistent repayment structure.
Cardiff quotes MCA pricing using factor rates (e.g., 1.1 to 1.3 of the advance) rather than interest rates. They set the total payback amount upfront, along with terms ranging from as short as three months to as long as two years.
As an MCA direct lender, Cardiff offers early pay-off incentives and renewal options. If business owners repay the advance before the end of their term, Cardiff removes the remaining fee from the total repayment amount. And if a borrower needs more working capital before repaying the first MCA, those with strong financials can secure an additional cash advance from Cardiff.3
Amazon’s Merchant Cash Advance offers Amazon sellers a lump-sum advance against future sales through its partner, Parafin. The program is invite-only and typically delivered to Amazon marketplace sellers who have consistent sales. Businesses not selling on Amazon cannot access this MCA, and even those who do must wait for an invite.6
When invited, applying does not impact your personal credit scores or require collateral. Parafin approves and offers a funding amount based on your Amazon store metrics. With a strong cash flow and payment history, you can secure between $500,000 and $10 million.9
With an Amazon MCA, the lender automatically deducts a fixed percentage of your Amazon sales daily. Parafin only takes payments on days you have sales and allows you infinite time to pay back the advance and borrowing costs. Those costs, referred to as capital fees, are one-time, fixed amounts added to the advance at the beginning of the merchant cash advance loan.
Between the two lenders, Cardiff is the best quick MCA provider because of its broad availability, same-day funding speed, and tailored terms. Its MCA is well-suited for companies that need capital quickly without the lengthy documentation or strict eligibility requirements that often slow traditional financing. Cardiff’s ability to structure payments around real cash flow, offer early pay-off benefits, and provide renewal opportunities gives business owners an added layer of control and transparency.
Amazon Lending’s MCA, powered by Parafin, excels within its niche, offering streamlined access to capital for established Amazon sellers with predictable sales patterns. The automatic repayment tied directly to marketplace performance makes it seamless for eCommerce businesses already thriving on the platform. However, its invite-only structure and limited eligibility make it inaccessible to most other business types.
For small and mid-sized companies operating outside the Amazon ecosystem, Cardiff delivers a more versatile and inclusive solution. Cardiff’s offering meets a broader market need, making it a more practical and scalable option for entrepreneurs across various industries.
Business line of credit providers offer owners on-demand access to working capital within an approved credit limit, which they can withdraw as needed.
When you get a line of credit from Cardiff, you get a revolving line of credit. As you repay what you borrow, the funds become available again. Cardiff offers fixed monthly repayments with simple 9.9% APR for their business line of credit, as well as more flexible payment plans.10 And you only pay interest on what you use without any maintenance, closure, or prepayment fees.
For approvals, Cardiff considers your complete financial history, not just your credit score. Business owners with at least 12 months of operations, a 550 FICO score,10 and substantial revenue generally qualify for an unsecured credit line. Cardiff offers secured business lines of credit for companies with assets to offer as collateral.
Once approved, you can access funds from your credit line as fast as the same day or wait until you need them. Cardiff automatically adjusts your funding limit as your business grows and you make consistent payments. If you maintain a good standing account, Cardiff will renew your credit line without requiring another application.10
Amazon Lending invites some sellers to apply for a business line of credit through their banking partner, Uncapped. Although only available by invitation, Amazon sellers must have a minimum of six months of trading history and at least $10,000 in monthly recurring revenue (MRR) to qualify. Applying won’t impact your credit score.8
Uncapped offers decisions in one business day, and makes funds from the credit line available within 24 hours. Sellers qualify for funding based on their Amazon sales. The lender typically offers credit limits of 1-1.5 times the seller’s MRR. Business owners can discuss renewing or increasing their limit with Uncapped representatives. 8
Similar to Cardiff, the seller draws on funds up to their limit while paying interest only on the amount drawn. Uncapped locks a fixed interest rate for the life of your credit line, and typically offers competitive APRs as a perk for Amazon sellers (exact rates are not publicly disclosed).6
Amazon Lending’s credit line features a fixed repayment structure. Sellers make one regular repayment every 14 days. If the borrower draws additional funds within the two weeks, the provider recalculates the payment amount as a percentage of the total credit limit.8
While Amazon’s business line of credit through Uncapped delivers a streamlined borrowing experience for qualified Amazon sellers, Cardiff’s business line of credit offers far greater flexibility and accessibility across industries. The difference comes down to reach and adaptability. Cardiff’s program opens the door to nearly any small or mid-sized business, providing a revolving source of capital without restrictive eligibility or hidden fees.
Cardiff’s approach prioritizes transparency and scalability, so business owners can draw funds as needed, repay early without penalties, and watch their credit limit increase as their company grows.
For Amazon sellers who already thrive on the platform, Uncapped’s credit line offers a convenient and integrated way to fuel inventory purchases or marketing efforts. But for everyone else, Cardiff delivers a more inclusive, growth-ready credit solution that evolves with your operations. It’s designed to support long-term momentum, which makes Cardiff’s credit line the best line of credit for businesses, not just Amazon sellers.
Cardiff offers equipment loans, where you own the tools from the outset, equipment leases, where you rent the asset until the end of the term, or buyout clauses, and equipment lease-backs, where you can essentially mortgage machinery you already own to free up capital.11 Their commercial equipment financing enables businesses to acquire physical assets when needed, while spreading the cost into manageable payments.
Cardiff provides equipment financing for dentists, contractors, restaurants, and many other industries. They require minimal information in the application, respond within five minutes, and transfer funds as fast as the same day.2
To qualify for top funding amounts and the most competitive rates, Cardiff looks for businesses that have been in operation for more than two years and recommend a credit score of 550 or higher. However, they rely on their Business Health Score to evaluate applications and offer financing for companies with less-than-perfect credit and startups.5
Cardiff’s small business equipment loans and leases offer terms ranging from two to seven years, with flexible repayment structures. They structure payments flexibly, including one-year deferrals, seasonal payments, or increasing repayments as your equipment generates revenue. As you meet the equipment financing terms, you automatically qualify for an equipment line of credit that you can use for future upgrades, repairs, or investments.11
Cardiff offers low borrowing costs for financing business equipment. The machinery, vehicles, appliances, or furniture serve as collateral for your loan or lease, so interest rates start as low as 5.99%.11 Cardiff never charges prepayment penalties and offers a discount for early pay-off.4
Amazon Lending does not offer dedicated equipment financing. It offers term loans through Lendistry, QuickBooks, and Uncapped. These loans typically range from six to 24 months, with disclosed funding amounts up to $200,000. Sellers could use it as a short-term financing option for equipment.6
However, Amazon Lending does not disclose the terms and conditions to the public, as sellers can only apply by invitation. With their focus on e-commerce businesses and working capital solutions, it is unclear if the terms would allow equipment purchases or upgrades.6
When considering equipment financing companies, Cardiff clearly takes the lead. Its loan and lease options cover a wide range of industries, making it accessible to nearly any business that relies on physical assets. Flexible repayment structures, schedules, and low borrowing costs distinguish Cardiff, providing businesses with the freedom to acquire essential equipment without straining their cash flow. Early pay-off incentives and automatic qualification for future equipment lines of credit further enhance its appeal for growing businesses.
Amazon Lending does not offer dedicated equipment financing. While sellers may have access to term loans through partners, these options are primarily designed for short-term working capital and are only available via invitation. Publicly available information is limited, and the terms may not accommodate equipment purchases or long-term asset investment, leaving many businesses without a reliable financing solution.
For companies seeking specialized equipment loans or leases, Cardiff’s products ensure that equipment financing is strategic and growth-oriented.
Cardiff’s business term loans (often called working capital or traditional loans) provide a lump sum of capital with a fixed repayment schedule. Rather than relying on a minimum credit score, Cardiff evaluates your revenue quality, industry experience, and financial data through a streamlined application process. They return decisions in minutes, and frequently make capital transfers on the same day.2
Cardiff offers short-term working capital loans that fund as little as $5,000 over a period of three to 24 months. They also provide long-term funding options and up to $500,000.12 The average loan length and approved financing amount are 39 months and $82,000.2
Borrowing costs for short and long-term business loans through Cardiff remain low. Interest rates on secured loans start a 5.99% for businesses with a 550 or higher FICO score and one year in business. Unsecured loans and working capital loans have slightly higher borrowing rates. Cardiff clearly explains any fees before you sign and offers discounts for prepayment.12
Cardiff recommends term loans for small businesses that value predictable and consistent repayment schedules. You agree to the fixed amount and payment timing before signing your agreement. Cardiff offers automatic daily, weekly, or monthly ACH drafts, tailored to your cash flow.
Amazon Lending primarily offers business term loans to Amazon sellers through QuickBooks, Uncapped, and Lendistry. The terms and borrowing costs vary between providers.6
With Lendistry, Amazon sellers can secure loans ranging from $10,000 to $250,000 with loan terms of up to five years.13 Lendistry sets a fixed interest rate, which is said to be very competitive but is not publicly available. Lendistry provides Amazon Lending’s only long-term loan option.6
QuickBooks offers a term loan to Amazon sellers who use the accounting program for their bookkeeping, making it doubly exclusive. They offer short-term loans ranging from six months to two years, with amounts between $1,500 and $200,000. Borrowers pay a fixed interest rate, which is available only to those invited.6
Amazon sellers can also secure a short-term loan through Uncapped. Based on their sales, sellers can secure 1-1.5 times their MRR as a lump sum payment spread over 24 months. Uncapped uses a fixed monthly fee rather than an interest rate, which starts as low as 0.7% the borrowed amount.8
All Amazon Lending term loans offer convenient applications and repayment options. Eligible sellers with an invitation can apply without affecting their personal credit. Borrowers typically receive a decision within one business day and the funds in two business days. For repayment, the provider automatically deducts a fixed monthly amount from the seller’s account balance or the bank account on file.
When business term loan providers, Cardiff clearly positions itself as the most accessible and versatile option for small and mid-sized businesses across industries. Its streamlined application process, rapid approvals, and same-day funding mean companies can secure the capital they need without having to jump through hoops. Cardiff’s range of loan amounts and flexible terms allows borrowers to select financing that aligns with their operational needs and cash flow cycles. Fixed repayment schedules can be customized to accommodate daily, weekly, or monthly drafts, providing predictability while allowing for seasonal fluctuations in revenue.
Amazon Lending’s term loans, while convenient for qualified Amazon sellers, are largely limited to that ecosystem. Options vary by partner but are only available by invitation. Borrowers may benefit from competitive rates and automated repayment structures. However, the lack of transparency, industry exclusivity, and limited loan amounts restricts the appeal for businesses outside the Amazon marketplace.
For companies seeking the best term loans for businesses, Cardiff provides a clear advantage. Its term loans are designed to support growth and stability for virtually any small business, ensuring that financing is not only available but tailored to real-world needs.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers government-backed financing known for low interest rates, high funding amounts, and long terms. Business owners can secure up to $5 million in funding with a repayment term as long as 10 years. Cardiff acts as a facilitator for SBA loan programs, offering fast small business lending and expert guidance.14
Applying for and securing an SBA loan can take many months, but Cardiff streamlines the process by preparing the application to meet SBA requirements. Cardiff’s eligibility checklist requires a minimum credit score of 550, $20,000 in monthly revenue, and a minimum of two years in business.14
Even with help, an SBA loan can still take several weeks to finalize. In the interim, business owners working with Cardiff can benefit from their small loans for businesses to bridge the gap between application and approval. It gives their clients the best chance of securing low-cost, long-term funding and access to immediate working capital.14
Amazon Lending does not offer or facilitate SBA loans. The program focuses on short-term funding for Amazon sellers through its partner lenders. If you are an Amazon seller interested in the low-interest and extended repayment terms of an SBA loan, you would need to apply through an SBA-approved bank or lending intermediary.6
Interested business owners can apply through Lendistry, one of the term loan providers for Amazon Lending, as it is an SBA preferred lender. It would be an independent application, outside the Amazon Seller’s portal.7
When it comes to SBA-backed financing, Cardiff stands out clearly. While the Small Business Administration offers attractive terms, including low interest rates, high funding amounts, and repayment periods up to 10 years, the application process can be lengthy and complex. For clients applying for an SBA 7(a), 504, or Microloan, Cardiff serves as a knowledgeable guide, helping business owners navigate the SBA’s requirements and prepare applications that meet all the necessary criteria. Their expertise reduces errors and increases the likelihood of approval, giving businesses access to government-backed loans that might otherwise be out of reach.
Amazon Lending, by contrast, does not provide SBA financing. Its platform focuses exclusively on short-term funding for Amazon Sellers, leaving government-backed loan opportunities out of the picture.
By combining hands-on SBA application assistance with interim small business loans to bridge cash flow gaps, Cardiff positions itself as the premier lender for small business loans and a comprehensive partner for business growth.
Cardiff rounds out its loans for small business owners by offering business credit cards. Cardiff Cards are revolving, cash advance credit cards tailored to reward small businesses without annual fees.16
Cardiff offers two cards: the Business Card and the Business Reward Card. The application and decision for either card takes just a few minutes. Cardiff uses revenue strength and other financial data as the requirements, so even businesses with limited credit history can qualify.16
Each Cardiff Card features 0% introductory APR for 12 months on all balance transfers and purchases as well as travel benefits, 24/7 customer service, and online account management. The Rewards Card includes a cash back program.16
Cardiff combines its merchant cash advance for small businesses with Cardiff Cards. Cardholders can withdraw a lump-sum advance on their credit limit, similar to an MCA. Cardiff typically bills your balance monthly, but will match repayment, especially for an advance, to your revenue cycle.16
Amazon Lending does not include business credit cards. This program exclusively offers term loans, business lines of credit, and cash advances to Amazon sellers.6
However, American Express does offer the Amazon Business Prime card. This card is specifically designed to reward business owners who make purchases on Amazon Prime with 5% cash back and gift cards. Interested Amazon sellers would need to apply through American Express rather than Amazon Lending. 15
Between these two working capital lenders, Cardiff once again has the clear advantage. Amazon Lending does not offer a credit card product, so Amazon sellers must look to third-party providers for a business credit card.
Meanwhile, Cardiff Cards stand out among the best small business credit cards with its cash advance option. Business owners benefit from access to working capital and flexible repayments, in addition to valuable perks. The holistic qualifications mean that small companies of all kinds can access the business credit card.
Both working capital companies offer useful but vastly different programs for businesses.
Amazon Lending’s strength lies in simplicity and integration. Its funding options fit seamlessly into the Amazon ecosystem, providing sellers with quick and low-friction access to working capital. Through trusted partners like Lendistry, Uncapped, Parafin, and QuickBooks, Amazon offers streamlined term loans, merchant cash advances, and business lines of credit tailored for marketplace businesses.
For active sellers with consistent sales volume, this invite-only model delivers convenience and predictable repayment without the red tape often associated with traditional lending.
Cardiff, on the other hand, brings flexibility, accessibility, and speed to a much wider audience, making it a top small business lender. Its programs aren’t limited to one platform or business model. From construction and healthcare to retail and restaurants, Cardiff’s financing options are tailored to meet the needs of various businesses and industries. Their fast application process, same-day approvals, and customized repayment structures make them a reliable resource for both short-term liquidity and long-term growth planning.
Ultimately, Amazon Lending caters to a niche, whereas Cardiff targets the broader small business market. Cardiff is a partner that grows alongside your business. Whether you need capital to bridge a seasonal dip, purchase equipment, or expand operations, Cardiff’s ability to move quickly and think long-term gives it a distinct edge over Amazon’s invite-only lending network.
Yes. New startups without any income may be able to qualify for Cardiff’s equipment financing. However, businesses with at least six months of operational history and a minimum level of revenue are better positioned for equipment loans and working capital.5
Yes. Amazon Lending is an invite-only program tied to your Amazon Seller Central account.6 Applying and funding are based on Amazon Lending’s timeline.
With Cardiff, many applicants receive approval within minutes and funding on the same day, depending on the loan type and documentation provided.2 This makes Cardiff ideal for businesses that need fast access to working capital.
Amazon Lending also offers relatively quick decisions, usually within one business day, but funding typically takes up to two business days after approval.6 However, its programs are invite-only and limited to Amazon sellers, so access and timing depend on eligibility within the Amazon ecosystem.
In short, Cardiff offers faster and more accessible funding across various industries, while Amazon Lending provides quick and convenient capital for established Amazon sellers.
Amazon Lending offers three main financing products to invited sellers: term loans, merchant cash advances, and business lines of credit. They provide these working capital solutions through lending partners like Lendistry, Uncapped, Parafin, and QuickBooks. 6
Yes. With business invoice financing, Cardiff advances cash against your outstanding invoices. You repay the loan when your clients make their payments. 17 This is another revenue-based working capital product Cardiff offers that Amazon Lending does not.
Amazon Lending doesn’t publicly list rates, and borrowing costs vary by the individual offer. Some Amazon sellers may get offers with competitive APRs. They recommend comparing the interest rates in the invitation to those offered by other lenders. 6
Cardiff offers transparent rates, though interest will vary by product and offer. For example, they offer 5.99% APR for secured financing to businesses with strong credit history. 2
No. Neither Amazon Lending nor Cardiff requires collateral for their financing products. Amazon relies on your sales to deduct payments and manage risk.6 Cardiff offers a secured loan option and secures the asset in an equipment loan, but uses personal guarantees to manage risk. 2
With Amazon Lending, repayments are automatically deducted from your Amazon sales proceeds or linked account. Borrowers pay a fixed monthly amount for term loans and the business line of credit, or a daily percentage of their revenue for an MCA. 6
Cardiff also automates payments through ACH drafts, but offers more flexible schedules. Business owners can make daily, weekly, or monthly payments and choose between fixed amounts or flexible repayments. Revenue-based loan payments are often percentages of your income, like with a traditional MCA. 3
Cardiff offers top-rated working capital loans of up to approximately $500,000.12 Their equipment financing can also extend up to $250,000, depending on the asset.11 For businesses that need additional capital, Cardiff can connect you with a lending partner and help you apply for an SBA loan of up to $5 million. 14
Applying to Cardiff will not affect your credit score, as they conduct a soft credit inquiry for initial eligibility purposes. They will run a credit check if you proceed with taking a loan. Cardiff reports to business credit bureaus, so on-time payments help build business credit. 18 Your financing will not impact your personal credit score. 4
Amazon Lending relies on your internal seller data, so applying for financing does not impact your personal credit. If you secure a term loan or business credit line, it may appear on your business credit reports. Amazon’s MCA partner, Parafin, does not run a personal credit check at all. 6
Cardiff offers incentives for early pay-off on all its financial products, which typically involve waiving the remaining interest. For repeat customers, Cardiff offers higher renewal amounts and lower borrowing rates as relationship perks. 4 Additionally, Cardiff’s business credit cards come with cash back rewards and travel benefits. 16
Amazon Lending’s financing is utilitarian and does not offer a loyalty program or a rewards-earning product. 6 Convenience is the main perk for Amazon sellers.
Nothing changes your loan terms with either provider, but be aware of how a change in revenue will impact your ability to make repayments.
Amazon Lending uses fixed payment amounts for term loans and lines of credit. So if your sales drop, Amazon will still automatically deduct the full monthly installment. 6 You might see your entire revenue swallowed by the loan payment. As a more flexible financing option, Amazon Lending offers an MCA. A fixed percentage of your daily sales goes toward the advance, but the amount fluctuates with your revenue. 6
Cardiff offers a variety of repayment options depending on your business needs and financing product. Unless you choose revenue-based financing before signing, they will automatically deduct the fixed amount according to the schedule in your agreement. 4 Contact your dedicated loan advisor if your income changes to discuss more flexible repayment options.
1 https://cardiff.co/business-loans/
2 https://cardiff.co/
3 https://cardiff.co/business-loans/products/merchant-cash-advance/
4 https://cardiff.co/learn/faq/
5 https://cardiff.co/business-loans/how-to-qualify/
6 https://sell.amazon.com/programs/amazon-lending
7 https://lendistry.com/business-lending/
8 https://www.weareuncapped.com/frequently-asked-questions?
9 https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221101005411/en/Amazon-Launches-New-Merchant-Cash-Advance-Program-Provided-by-Parafin-Doubling-Down-on-Its-Support-for-Small–and-Medium-Sized-Businesses
10 https://cardiff.co/business-loans/products/line-of-credit/
11 https://cardiff.co/business-loans/products/equipment-leasing/
12 https://cardiff.co/business-loans/products/short-term-working-capital-loans/
13 https://lendistrypartners.com/wp-content/uploads/Lendistry-Product-Guide-Final-20240404.pdf
14 https://cardiff.co/business-loans/products/sba-loans/
15 https://www.americanexpress.com/us/credit-cards/business/business-credit-cards/amazon-business-prime-card/
16 https://cardiff.co/business-loans/products/business-cards/
17 https://cardiff.co/business-loans/products/business-invoice-financing/
18 https://cardiff.co/privacy-policy/
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