Invoice discounting is a financial tool designed to improve cash flow for businesses by leveraging their unpaid invoices. This method is particularly beneficial for SMEs, traders, and sole proprietors who often face cash flow challenges due to delayed payments from clients.
What is Invoice Discounting?
Invoice discounting facility in Kenya allows businesses to access funds tied up in their accounts receivable. Instead of waiting for clients to pay their invoices, businesses can sell these invoices to a financial institution at a discount, receiving immediate cash in return. This helps maintain liquidity and ensures smooth operations.
How Does Invoice Discounting Work in Kenya?
- Issuance of Invoice: A business issues an invoice to a client for goods or services provided.
- Submission to Financial Institution: The business submits the invoice to an invoice discounting service provider.
- Evaluation: The provider evaluates the invoice and the creditworthiness of the client.
- Advance Payment: Upon approval, the provider advances a percentage of the invoice value to the business, typically between 70% to 90%.
- Invoice Settlement: When the client pays the invoice, the financial institution deducts the advance and fees, then remits the remaining balance to the business.
Advantages of Invoice Discounting Facility
There are many advantages of invoice discounting facility in Kenya that you or your business can benefit from.
- Improved Cash Flow: Provides immediate access to cash, helping businesses meet operational expenses and invest in growth opportunities.
- Confidentiality: Clients remain unaware of the arrangement as the business retains control over its sales ledger.
- Flexibility: The facility grows with the business, allowing access to more funds as sales increase.
- Credit Management: Some providers offer additional services such as credit checks and collections, reducing administrative burden.
Disadvantages of Invoice Discounting Services in Kenya
Invoice discounting facility in Kenya may at times be unfavorable to your business because of certain factor.
- Cost: The discounting fees can be significant, impacting overall profitability.
- Eligibility Criteria: Strict criteria for client creditworthiness can limit access.
- Risk of Dependency: Reliance on invoice discounting might indicate underlying cash flow issues that need addressing.
- Complexity: Managing relationships with the provider and clients can add administrative complexity.
Alternatives to Invoice Discounting in Kenya Service
There are several alternative means for businesses to raise working capital that are equally as effective as opting for invoice discounting facility in Kenya.
- Business Loans: Traditional loans provide a lump sum of cash, often with longer repayment terms.
- Overdrafts: Banks offer overdraft facilities for short-term cash flow needs.
- Factoring: Similar to invoice discounting, but the provider takes control of the sales ledger and collections.
- Trade Credit: Arrangements with suppliers to delay payments for goods or services.
What to Consider Before Choosing Invoice Discounting in Kenya Provider
Before you settle on a provider for invoice discounting facility in Kenya, try and understand their terms, operations, reputation and more as below.
- Fees and Charges: Compare the discount rates and any additional fees. Understand the total cost of the service.
- Reputation: Look for a provider with a solid reputation and positive customer reviews.
- Terms and Conditions: Carefully review the agreement’s terms, focusing on any hidden fees or conditions.
- Support Services: Consider if the provider offers additional services like credit checks or collection services.
Common FAQs In Invoice Discounting Service In Kenya
Below are common facts about invoice discounting facility in Kenya that you are likely to need to know ahead of time.
How much can I get through invoice discounting?
Typically, businesses can access 70% to 90% of the invoice value.
Is invoice discounting suitable for all businesses?
It is most suitable for businesses with creditworthy clients and significant accounts receivable.
How quickly can I get funds through invoice discounting?
Funds are usually available within a few days after submitting the invoice.
What happens if the client doesn’t pay the invoice?
The business might need to repay the advance or face additional fees, depending on the provider’s terms.
Need Invoice Discounting Facility For Your Invoices?
At Discount Capital, we understand that cash flow is the lifeblood of any business. Our invoice discounting services are designed to provide immediate liquidity, helping SMEs, traders, and sole proprietors manage their finances more effectively. With tailored solutions, quick processing, and expert support, we ensure your business stays on track and ready to grow.
