Waiting on a Check"? The Real Problem No One Talks About

If you've ever refreshed your bank account 37 times in an hour, hoping for a deposit that never comes, congratulations—you own a business! 🏗️💰

"Waiting on a check" isn’t just a minor inconvenience. It’s the gut-wrenching reality for trade contractors who do great work but still have to chase their money like a dog chasing its tail. The worst part? It’s not a mismanagement issue. It’s a system issue.

Why Trade Contractors Struggle With Cash Flow

🔹 60-90 Day Payment Cycles
You finish the job, submit the invoice, and… wait. Meanwhile, payroll is due, vendors need their cut, and that new equipment you bought on faith? Well, that bill isn’t waiting. Oh, and don't get me started on retainage. Final payment may not come until a year or more before you can finally close out a job. The construction industry needs to move to a 30-day cycle—otherwise, more great subcontractors will go under not because of bad work, but because they’re growing fast and don’t have access to working capital.

🔹 Access to Capital? Yeah, Right.
The U.S. government will happily guarantee six-figure student loans for degrees that may lead to a good job, but try getting that same backing for a business loan to scale your trade? Good luck. Trade contractors can be up and running, making six figures for the owner in three years, but financing? Still a nightmare.

The Predatory Lending Trap

This is where Merchant Cash Advance (MCA) lenders swoop in. They offer quick cash—but at 40%+ interest, with five to six-figure weekly payments. It’s like borrowing from the mafia, minus the baseball bats. The worst part? Many trade contractors take the deal because they have no other choice.

What Needs to Change?

✔ 30-Day Payment Cycles – Faster cash flow, fewer business failures.
✔ SBA Support for Trade Contractors – If we can guarantee $100K+ for a college degree, why not for skilled trades that keep America running?

So, if you’re waiting on a check today, I see you. I hear you. And I know the feeling. Until the system changes, keep grinding, keep invoicing, and maybe—just maybe—keep a lucky charm in your mailbox. 🍀📬

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Patrick

Patrick Shurney, MBA
Founder, 3P Consulting
📞 443.539.6276
🌐 www.3pcllc.com

Getting Trade Contractors’ Finances Sorted

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About Me:

As a veteran in financial coaching with over 30 years of corporate banking experience, my mission is to empower Trade Contractors like you to become numbers confident, optimize cash flow, leverage debt, and pay yourself competitively.

Ready for More?

Here’s how I can help you:

1.     Profit Blueprint Program: Master your business numbers in just 30 days, uncovering hidden profits of $25K-$75K+ over the next 3-12 months.

2.     Loan Consulting: Need the best rates and terms on your next loan? With 30+ years of banking experience, I’ll make sure you get a deal that works for you.

3.    Profit Blueprint Digital Course: Become confident with your numbers, boost cash flow, and learn to pay yourself first in just two hours. This course is designed for busy professionals who want immediate results. ($197)

Ready to take your financial strategy to the next level? Let’s connect and make sure you’re running a thriving business while paying yourself what you’re worth.