Kabbage vs OnDeck: Which Is Better for Your Business? (2026)

Kabbage and OnDeck are two of the most recognized names in online small business lending, and neither is a merchant cash advance. Kabbage, acquired by American Express in 2020, now operates as the American Express Business Line of Credit — a revolving credit line with a flat monthly fee. OnDeck offers APR-based term loans and lines of credit. The right choice depends on whether you want a one-time lump sum or ongoing access.

Here is how they compare on the details that matter.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Data verified as of 2026. Terms vary by business and are subject to change — confirm current offers directly with each provider.

Product Structure

This is the core difference. Kabbage is a revolving line of credit — draw what you need, repay over 6, 12, or 18 months per draw, and the credit becomes available again as you pay it down. It is ideal for recurring or uncertain needs. OnDeck centers on term loans — a one-time lump sum repaid on a fixed schedule — though it also offers a smaller revolving line up to $100,000.

If you want ongoing access to capital, Kabbage’s line fits better. If you need a defined lump sum for a specific purpose, OnDeck’s term loan is cleaner.

Qualification Requirements

The two trade strengths. Kabbage requires a higher credit score (660+) but a much lower revenue floor ($3,000 monthly). OnDeck accepts lower credit (625+) but wants higher revenue ($100,000 annually, roughly $8,300 a month). Both require about a year in business.

So a lower-revenue but good-credit business may fit Kabbage, while a higher-revenue but weaker-credit business may fit OnDeck.

Cost

Kabbage charges a flat monthly fee of roughly 1.5% to 10% of each draw depending on term, which works out to an effective APR of about 20% to 80% (averaging near 42%). The flat fee is predictable but the APR can be high on longer terms. OnDeck uses APR-based pricing of 29.9% to 97.3% on term loans plus 2.4% to 4% origination. Neither is cheap; both serve the speed-and-accessibility market rather than competing with bank rates. Compare total dollars repaid on the same amount and term.

Funding Amounts

Both top out at $250,000. Kabbage starts lower at $2,000, useful for small recurring draws, while OnDeck’s term loan starts at $5,000. For the line-of-credit comparison, Kabbage’s $250,000 ceiling exceeds OnDeck’s $100,000 line.

Funding Speed

Both are fast. Kabbage approves in minutes to a few hours and funds in 1 to 3 days, often within 24 hours. OnDeck approves in 24 to 48 hours and funds in 1 to 3 days. For repeat borrowing, Kabbage’s revolving line is quicker since each draw is already approved; OnDeck’s term loans require a fresh application.

When to Choose Kabbage

• You want ongoing, flexible access to a credit line
• Your revenue is lower ($3,000 to $100,000 monthly range)
• You have a 660+ credit score
• You value American Express backing and predictable monthly fees
• You make recurring, smaller draws

When to Choose OnDeck

• You need a one-time lump sum for a defined purpose
• Your credit is 625 to 660 but revenue is strong ($100,000+)
• You want transparent APR pricing
• You prefer a fixed repayment schedule
• You value a long-established lender

The Bottom Line

Kabbage and OnDeck both bridge the gap between slow bank loans and expensive cash advances. Kabbage is the better revolving credit line for ongoing needs and lower-revenue businesses with good credit. OnDeck is the stronger one-time term loan for businesses with solid revenue and slightly lower credit.

Request offers from both, calculate the total repayment on the same dollar amount and term, and pick the one whose structure and cost fit your cash flow.

Learn More

• Kabbage (Amex) full review
• OnDeck full review
• Compare every MCA provider
• Calculate your total cost

Ready to Compare Your Options?

Browse every MCA provider side by side, calculate your total cost, then apply for funding today when you are ready to move.