Invoice Factoring: What to Know About Factoring Rates

Invoice factoring, a type of debtor finance where businesses turn their accounts receivable into fast cash for a percentage fee, can help your business receive much-needed alternative financing and temporary financial support to meet pressing needs.

Let’s say you sent your client an invoice for $1000 that is payable in 30 days, but you need the money quickly to pay an urgent bill. With invoice factoring, you don't have to wait weeks or months to receive payments. An invoice factoring company (commonly referred simply as factors) can give you the $1000, minus a percentage of their factoring rates, so you can have the working capital needed to meet pressing needs in moments.

To help you understand more and determine if this business financing option is good for you, here is what you should know about invoice factoring, from factors affecting invoice factoring rates to creditworthiness and due diligence.

I. Factors Affecting Invoice Factoring Rates

Invoice factoring rates are influenced by several factors, including: 

• The creditworthiness of your customers,
• The volume and quality of your invoices,
• The industry you operate in, and
• The duration of the factoring agreement.

Invoice factoring companies also consider the average size of your invoices and the time your customers take to pay.

II. Amount of Discount Rate

The invoice factoring rate is often referred to as the discount rate. This rate represents the percentage of the invoice that the factor will keep as a fee for providing immediate cash.

The discount rate can vary based on the abovementioned factors and ranges between 1% and 5% of the monthly invoice value.

III. Recourse vs. Non-Recourse Factoring

Invoice factoring rates can differ based on whether the agreement is recourse or non-recourse.

In recourse factoring, the business remains responsible for any unpaid invoices. If a customer fails to pay, the business must reimburse the factor.

Non-recourse factoring, but absolves the business of liability if a customer defaults. Yet, non-recourse factoring rates are generally higher due to the increased risk for the factor.

IV. Volume and Commitment

The volume of invoices you factor and the length of the factoring agreement can impact the rates offered by factors.

Higher invoice volumes or longer-term commitments may lead to lower rates, as factors value stable and predictable cash flow.

V. Additional Fees

Apart from the discount rate, you should be aware of any additional factoring fees associated with invoice factoring. These could include:

• Application fees
• Due diligence fees
• Account setup fees
• Wire transfer fees

Make sure to review the agreement to understand the complete cost structure thoroughly.

VI. Creditworthiness and Due Diligence

Factors assess the creditworthiness of your customers before agreeing to purchase your invoices. They will analyze your customers' payment history and financial stability to determine the risk involved.

Your creditworthiness may also be taken into consideration. Factors often conduct due diligence on your business to assess its stability and viability.

VII. Negotiation and Comparison

It's crucial to shop around and compare rates from different factoring companies to ensure you're getting the best deal.

Factors may be open to negotiation, especially if you have a strong credit history or a high volume of invoices.

Don't hesitate to discuss rates and terms with an invoice factoring company to find a solution that works for both parties.

In Conclusion

Understanding invoice factoring rates is essential when considering this financing option for your business. Consider the factors that affect the rates, the discount rate or fees charged, the type of factoring agreement, and the negotiation possibilities.

By being informed and conducting thorough research, you can decide and choose the right factoring company that suits your business needs.