Selling accounts receivable is a fast way to turn unpaid invoices into cash. Also called invoice factoring, this financing option helps businesses improve cash flow without taking on new debt.
What Does It Mean to Sell Accounts Receivable?
Selling accounts receivable means transferring unpaid invoices to a factoring company in exchange for an immediate cash advance. The factor collects payment from your customer and sends you the remaining balance, minus a fee, after the invoice is paid.
How It Works
- You provide goods or services and send an invoice.
- You submit the invoice to a factoring company.
- The factor reviews the invoice and your customer’s creditworthiness.
- You receive an advance.
- The factor collects payment from your customer.
- You receive the reserve balance minus the factoring fee.
Who Is a Good Fit?
This type of financing is often a good fit for businesses that:
- Invoice other businesses.
- Need fast access to cash.
- Want to avoid taking on debt.
- Have slow-paying customers.
- Need help covering payroll, inventory, or operating expenses.
Industries That Commonly Use Factoring
Businesses in these industries often use invoice factoring:
- Staffing
- Manufacturing
- Distribution
- Warehousing
- Professional services
Benefits of Selling Receivables
Selling accounts receivable can help businesses:
- Improve cash flow.
- Get paid faster.
- Reduce pressure from unpaid invoices.
- Support growth.
- Access funding without a traditional loan.
What to Expect
Factoring companies usually review:
- Your invoices.
- Your customer payment history.
- Your business information.
- Your accounts receivable aging reports.
Fees and advance rates vary based on invoice quality, customer credit, volume, and industry.
Is Invoice Factoring Right for Your Business?
Invoice factoring may be a smart option if your business needs cash now but does not want to wait on customer payments. It can be especially helpful for growing companies with reliable B2B customers.
Why Choose Universal Funding
Universal Funding helps businesses convert unpaid invoices into working capital quickly. Our factoring solutions are designed to support cash flow and keep your business moving forward.
FAQs
Can you sell accounts receivable?
Yes. Businesses can sell unpaid invoices to a factoring company for immediate cash.
Is selling receivables the same as invoice factoring?
Yes. In most cases, the terms refer to the same process.
Is it a loan?
No. Selling receivables is not a loan. It is the sale of an asset.
How fast can funding happen?
Many businesses receive funds much faster than with traditional financing.
Will my customers know?
In many cases, yes. The factoring company typically handles invoice collection.
The Bottom Line
Selling invoices for cash gives businesses quick access to working capital. Accounts receivable financing is not a loan; it is the sale of unpaid invoices for immediate funding, with no repayment required.
Need faster access to cash from unpaid invoices?
Contact Universal Funding to learn how selling accounts receivable can help improve your business cash flow. Call us today at 800-405-6035 or complete our rate form to speak with a funding specialist.
Key Takeaways
- Selling accounts receivable, also known as invoice factoring, turns unpaid invoices into cash quickly without increasing debt.
- The process involves transferring unpaid invoices to a factoring company for an advance, with the factor collecting payments directly from customers.
- This financing option suits businesses that invoice other companies, need fast cash, or want to avoid debt due to slow-paying customers.
- Industries like staffing, manufacturing, and professional services commonly use factoring to improve cash flow and get paid faster.
- Universal Funding offers prompt solutions for converting unpaid invoices into working capital, enhancing business financial health.

