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Compare · 2026

Business Line of Credit vs Credit Card for Contractors

Both are revolving — but they're not the same tool. Here's when each fits a contractor.

Short answer: A business credit card is best for smaller, everyday purchases and earns rewards, but cash access is expensive. A line of credit offers larger limits and cheap access to actual cash — ideal for payroll, materials, and covering draw gaps. Contractors often use a card for supplies and a line of credit for real cash-flow needs.

Reviewed by the Funded Contractor Capital Funding Team · Updated July 2026

How funding works, step by step

From application to funding in four steps — most contractors complete it within a day.

1

Apply in 5 minutes

Complete a short online application. It uses a soft credit pull that does not affect your score.

2

We review your deposits

Approval is based on your last 3 months of business bank statements — not tax returns or the contract.

3

Get your offer

Review your amount and terms up front, with any fees disclosed before you accept. No obligation.

4

Get funded

Sign and receive funds by ACH, often within 24 hours of approval.

Line of credit vs credit card

How the two compare for a contracting business.

CriteriaLine of CreditCredit Card
Access to cashYes — draw cash cheaplyCostly cash advances
Typical limit$10K – $500K$5K – $50K
Best forPayroll, materials, draw gapsSmall everyday purchases
CostInterest on drawsAPR + cash-advance fees
RewardsNoOften yes

Why contractors fund with us

  • One application shows you every option you qualify for
  • FICO 500+ accepted; approval on revenue
  • Funds in as little as 24 hours
  • We recommend the lowest-cost fit, not the priciest
  • Fixed payments or revenue-share — your choice
  • No tax returns — 3 months of bank statements

What you need to apply

  • US-based contracting business
  • 6+ months in business
  • ~$30,000+ in monthly revenue
  • Last 3 months of bank statements
  • Valid EIN and business bank account

Frequently asked questions

Is a line of credit better than a business credit card?
For real cash needs like payroll and materials, yes — a line of credit gives larger limits and cheap cash access. A card is better for small everyday purchases and rewards.
Can I use a credit card for payroll?
It's expensive — card cash advances carry high fees. A line of credit is the cheaper way to cover payroll.
Which option can I get fastest?
Most of these fund within 24 hours of approval. The application takes about 5 minutes with a soft credit pull that doesn't affect your score.
Can I qualify with bad credit?
Yes — FICO 500+ can qualify, because approval is weighted toward revenue and bank-deposit consistency rather than credit score.
Is this a business loan or a cash advance?
Both are available. The right structure depends on your revenue, credit, and how you prefer to repay — fixed payments or a share of your deposits. We show you the options you qualify for before you commit.
What can I use the funds for?
Any legitimate business purpose — payroll, materials, equipment, mobilization, covering the gap between draws, or growth. There are no restrictions on how you deploy working capital.
Are there any upfront fees to apply?
No. Applying and getting a decision is free, and any fees are disclosed in your offer before you accept — so there are no surprises.

Sources & further reading

Figures on this page are typical 2026 industry ranges provided for general information; your actual terms are set at application.

Get a real cash line

Apply in 5 minutes with a soft credit pull.

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Comparisons reflect typical 2026 industry structures for general information and vary by lender and underwriting; your actual terms are set at application. Product and company names referenced are the property of their respective owners.