MCA Stacking and Positions FAQ
MCA positions and stacking: second, third and what to do instead.
Position is the order of your open advances: the first one is first position, a second one taken while the first is still open is second position, and so on. Stacking means taking a new advance while another is still open, and each one adds its own payment to the same deposits.
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Positions and stacking
What first, second and third position mean, and how funders see a file with more than one advance.
What does position mean in an MCA?
Position is the order of your open advances. The first advance is first position, a second one taken while the first is still open is second position, and so on. Later positions get paid from the same deposits after the earlier debits, so each one takes a closer review and usually costs more.
Read more: Stacking and positions
What is MCA stacking?
Stacking means taking a new advance while another is still open. Each one adds its own payments to the same deposits, and it's the main way MCA debt gets out of hand. Owners often stack to cover the first advance's payments, which only adds cost. If you're thinking about it, look at the alternatives on this page first.
Read more: Stacking and positions
How many MCAs can I have at once?
There's no set legal limit, but each funder decides how many open positions it will accept, and many contracts bar new advances while theirs is open. The real limit is cash flow: add up every daily and weekly debit and compare it with your average daily deposits. The stacked payment calculator does that math for you.
Read more: Stacked payment calculator
Can I get a second position MCA?
Yes. Some funders buy second position files when deposits can clearly cover both payments. Expect a closer look at your existing debits, your balance after payments and how the first advance has been paid. The price is usually higher than a first position advance, so check whether the new cash is worth the added payment.
Read more: Second position MCA
Can I get a third position MCA?
Fewer funders take third position, and the price is usually higher. Your deposits have to carry all three payments with room to spare. Before taking one, ask whether a consolidation or a reverse consolidation would lower your total payments instead of adding a third payment to the same account.
Read more: Third position MCA
Do I have to tell funders about my other advances?
Yes. Funders see existing debits in your statements and in UCC filings, and they'll ask. Hiding one can end an offer, or breach the new contract after you sign. Tell us every open advance with its balance and payment, and we send the file only to funders whose programs take that position.
Read more: UCC liens and MCAs
What is an anti-stacking clause?
An anti-stacking clause is a contract term that bars you from taking another advance while the current one is open. Breaking it can count as a default, which can bring fees or a demand for the full balance. Check your existing contract before you take on another advance, and ask us if you're not sure what yours says.
Read more: How to read an MCA offer
Will my funder find out if I take another advance?
Usually, yes. A new advance shows up as a new debit in the bank account your funder already sees, and many funders also check UCC filings. If your contract has an anti-stacking clause, taking another advance can count as a default. Read your current contract first, and talk to your funder if you need more money.
Read more: Stacking and positions
What can I do instead of stacking another advance?
Look at consolidation, reverse consolidation, a renewal with your current funder, or a reconciliation request if sales have dropped. Each has its own cost, so compare the total payback and your weekly cash flow for each one. Sometimes the cheapest move is cutting costs for a few weeks rather than taking any new money.
Read more: MCA consolidation FAQ
Still have a question?
Call 877-FUND-654 with any question. We call you back, usually the same business day, and we always talk with you before we shop your file.