How to turn your future credit card sales into cash

I recently had dinner at one of my favorite local restaurants. I have known the owners for several years and have become friends with them. I asked how business was since this was their slow season and they replied that they were struggling, as always, during this time of year. They had tried to obtain a line of credit with their bank but did not qualify yet.

They are one example of many small business owners in the restaurant, retail, franchisees or seasonal businesses that are having difficulty in obtaining credit from traditional financing institutions. The life of a small retailer is tough these days and there are few signs that it's getting easier. So what is available to them?

These merchants rely heavily on credit card processing, so there are cash advance programs that offer a number of benefits. In most cases, business owners put up no personal collateral and make no personal guarantees.