Learn on American Capital Group Blog

Financing Equipment: A Smart Investment Strategy for Business Owners

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 18:45:11 +0000

As a business owner, you’re constantly faced with decisions that can shape the trajectory of your company’s success. One such decision often revolves around acquiring equipment, and the choice between paying in cash or financing can have significant implications for your bottom line. At American Capital Group, we’ve engaged in countless discussions with business owners grappling with this dilemma. Let’s explore why financing equipment might be the smartest investment strategy for your business.

Want better financing? 3 Ways to improve how you look financially.

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 16:42:23 +0000

Every business owner is concerned about the Fed hiking rates and how it impacts their profit margins. With the Fed aggressively hiking in the last year, the cost of funding has dramatically increased for many owners. There are a few solutions business owners can take to lower their cost of funding in the future compared to what they are paying now. One of the best ways to lower your cost of funds is to work on improving both your personal credit and your company’s debt ratios. Consider the following:

Section 179 Tax Deduction

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 06:06:19 +0000

What is Section 179?

For starters, the name is in reference to Section 179 of the IRS tax code. It allows small to medium-sized businesses to deduct up to $1 million worth of qualifying equipment or software from their net income if it was purchased or financed within that year (January 1 to December 31st). The goal of deducting the total depreciation expense of the equipment within the current year is to reduce a company’s taxable income and leave incentives for more purchasing in the future by optimizing cash flow.

15 Tips to help you ensure your business is successful

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 16:09:29 +0000

There are a lot of things to manage when running a business and often times things get overlooked or just forgotten about. Here are 15 tips of things to not overlook to help ensure your business is successful this year.

Make sure your website loads properly and doesn’t have any broken links. How does your website compare to your competition’s?
Make sure your automated phone system is user friendly and routes to the proper extension.

Strategic Planning for 2023

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 16:32:13 +0000

To ensure 2023 is a successful year, business owners need to evaluate the changing market and perform strategic planning for the year. Even a smaller 1-5 person business will benefit from performing a quick strength and weakness assessment analysis of their current business market. This helps owners be proactive vs reactive and helps ensure 2023 is a successful year. Ask yourself the following questions:

What is the strength of your business?

Are you getting the most from your bank/funding partner relationship?

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 12:10:11 +0000

One of the best resources a business owner can use is to tap into the knowledge of their funding partner. Many of our customers will ask advice on buying real estate, investing, tax strategies that can save their business income, and consult with us on equipment to determine if the return on investment is worth the risk. Any decent salesperson can make a sale, but the truly valuable ones can give their clients insightful advice that helps their business prosper.

Thinking of selling your equipment? How to make sure you get top dollar in today’s market.

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 18:58:12 +0000

Many of our customers are looking to upgrade this year or simply get rid of older equipment while it is still a seller’s market. Because of supply chain issues and scarcity of obtaining new equipment, the used equipment market remains extremely strong. If you have equipment or trucks that you have considered selling, now is a good time to take advantage of the market. To ensure you get the maximum value, we have a few tips to help you achieve your goal.

Section 179 Tax Deduction

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 20:25:11 +0000

What is Section 179?

Tips for Protecting Your Credit & Securing Better Financing

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 08:00:48 +0000

In market with rising interest rates, it’s important for business owners to recognize they can actually lower their cost of funds by improving their credit. At American Capital Group, one of our core values is to support our customers however we can, which includes educating them on best business practices.

We have consulted with many of our higher risk clients and by taking these steps to improve their credit risk profile, they have secured significantly better options.

Is it the Right Time to Invest in Equipment?

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 00:14:18 +0000

When it comes to investing in new equipment, many business owners only think about purchasing when their current equipment completely breaks down or they have an immediate business need that requires a new piece of equipment. This reactive purchasing habit can create extreme stress and result in paying more for the equipment because of the urgent need to get the equipment in action.

With any major purchases, when you buy can have a profound effect on your business operations. It’s easy to put off buying or replacing necessary business equipment when it’s not so easy to understand the useful lifetime of your equipment. There are many factors that can help you plan ahead for when you should buy equipment. The reasons listed below are a great place to start.

Business Resolutions: Plans to Start 2021 Strong

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 07:03:06 +0000

If you haven’t already, it’s time to start setting resolutions for your business. So much has changed in 2020, resulting in higher anxiety for what is to come in 2021. Resolutions and goals are more important than ever as your business is likely to continue to have to adjust into 2021. Here are 3 simple resolutions to consider to help you have a strong upcoming year.

How to Protect Your Credit During an Economic Downturn

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 16:07:32 +0000

As COVID-19 continues to ravage the nation and reopening efforts have had mixed results, millions of small businesses are reeling from the subsequent downturn that the virus has caused. With many seeking assistance from the SBA as well as aid from state programs and trade associations, small businesses that are weathering the pandemic are looking for creative ways to stay afloat. Seeking out additional private loans and other types of debt if PPP and EIDL were insufficient can be a short-term fix, but no one knows how long this situation will last and it could cause lasting damage to your credit rating. Here’s how you can keep your credit rating safe in these uncertain times

Reopening Your Business: 5 Things You Must Have in Your Plan

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 15:59:20 +0000

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown, the world of business in the immediate future is destined to be very different from what was once normal.

No matter what the business, from mom and pop retail to large-scale manufacturing, the workplace of the future is likely to be more safety-oriented than in the past. Whether that means installation of Plexiglass screening at every cash register, additional partitioning between desks, remote work stations and teleconferencing, shorter operating hours, or PPE and disinfectant wipes for every customer, business owners should assess future needs in relation to current capabilities. If that means leasing or purchasing new equipment to return to business, the increased costs will become a new requirement for doing business in this new age.

How to Build a Pipeline During an Economic Downturn

Wed, 06 May 2020 07:34:18 +0000

“Timing is everything.” You’ve heard it many times; you probably even have said it occasionally. It’s one of those expressions that can lift you up when good things happen, such as being “in the right place at the right time” to take advantage of an opportunity in business.

It can also be a wry commentary on how circumstances out of anyone’s individual control can affect business plans for growth and expansion. Luckily, with a bit of planning, you should be able to pivot your reaction to new circumstances with a minimum of disruption.

6 Things You Need to Get Approved for Financing Right Now

Mon, 04 May 2020 07:15:54 +0000

With the banks limiting the type of lending they will provide now more than ever, ACG wants to share some information to help you qualify for financing. We’ll break down the questions you should have ready to answer to get your business the best approval terms. The following questions come straight from out ACG credit team, so you know how to prepare, right from the source.

How to Plan for Success after the Coronavirus Pandemic Subsides

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 07:28:07 +0000

The COVID-19 pandemic is unlike anything the modern world has ever experienced, and this uncertain turmoil is bringing many businesses to a screeching halt. It is important to remember that even during these tumultuous times, there is still a future to look forward to.

Remain optimistic, but avoid creating a plan with a strict timeline in place. Choosing a date and time to resume in-person business transactions and reopen storefronts is likely not possible at this time. Instead, start focusing about new ideas or strategies you can implement several months from now.

How to Keep Engaged with Your Customers During Uncertain Times

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 07:00:05 +0000

The coronavirus pandemic has left many businesses navigating through murky waters. This unprecedented crisis has required millions upon millions of people around the world to change their way of life in a matter of moments, and business professionals have had to learn how to connect with their customers in new and innovative ways.

During uncertain times, there are ways that you can and should engage with your customers. Here’s a few tips for increasing your engagement levels and boosting your customer loyalty:

How Small to Midsize Businesses Can Plan to Survive a Recession

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 23:24:23 +0000

Building a business requires a variety of skills, not the least of which is the ability to adapt to changing times. If one thing is a given, no matter what the size of your business or how many years you have been in business, it’s that change is always just around the corner.

Those who learn that truth early on also learn how to analyze trends quickly, weigh options, strategize for various outcomes, and pivot when necessary. They are all learned skills, and they are particularly valuable when facing the prospect of a recession.

5 Ways Your Business Can Access More Money

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 00:54:39 +0000

5 Ways Your Business Can Access More Money

Whether your business is just getting on its feet, or has been around for two decades, it likely needs financing to help fund growth or if unforeseen circumstances affect your cash flow. For that reason, it’s important to know what ways your business can access more money. Here’s 5 ways to get you started.

Bank Lines of Credit

A bank line of credit, also known as a business line of credit, is a loan where your lender makes a certain amount of cash available to your business that you can use at any time. Unlike a regular business loan, a business line of credit won’t charge interest on the unused portion of credit you’re borrowing. Lines of credit are the most popular form of funding for a business but beware of what the bank asks as collateral. You can read more about things to consider when getting a line of credit here.

3 Common Problems That Cause Start Ups to Fail

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 13:34:49 +0000

Starting a business is very exciting, but the pressure to survive in the first two years is not for the faint of heart. Only 10% of new businesses succeed, and your goal is, of course, to be in that top percentage. Here are the three most common issues that cause start-ups to fail, and how to avoid them.

1. Lack of Planning

This seems to be the most obvious starting point, but a lot of start-ups are born from great ideas that kick-start the business without stopping to plan the next steps after the product or service is actually born. The goal to create overshadows the need to make mid-range and long term goals that allow for realistic planning. The “what’s next?” question should be decided on months prior. Planning helps you prepare for future business needs and gives you time to research and explore better growth options for the company. Naturally, specific to-do lists and deadlines will be set in place to maintain your company’s push forward and prevent easily avoidable circumstances from tanking business.

2. Failing to Adapt

Your first couple years of business are spent slaving away over internal matters. However, it is absolutely crucial to pay attention to the many players, changes, and trends in your market. If you don’t take a peak at what is happening in the industry or watch where your competitors move, your business offering could become obsolete by the time you’ve finished building it. Stay aware so you can pivot the company if necessary, or better, find and create a solution to an underserved need that could make your business even more profitable.

If you want to learn strategies about staying ahead of your competitors, read this blog. The key takeaway? Make sure your business has at least one factor that differentiates itself in your market, or else your company will likely fade among its competition.

3. Not Enough Financing

The idea of a lease or additional debt may seem intimidating as a small business owner. Navigating your way through the financial world and deceptive broker fees can feel overwhelming.

In order to make money, you’ll have to invest (a lot) into the business and, more often than not, you don’t have that money laying around. A decision to not utilize financing for your business and its equipment can seriously restrict your company’s capacity to expand, and limit the potential revenue it could be making. Shelling out thousands (or hundreds of thousands) for equipment will likely be unfeasible in the early stages, and financing will allow your business to sustain a healthy cash flow in order to make necessary maneuvers as you learn and grow during your first few years. Don’t make the mistake of tying up a large sum of money (especially in equipment) that prevents you from having cash on hand to use for more appropriate needs.

Meet with your accountant to discuss all different methods of financing, and consider the benefits of working with a direct lender.

Utilizing the latest or used equipment doesn’t have to be expensive. At American Capital Group, we can provide your business with innovative financing solutions to help meet your equipment needs. As specialists in equipment financing, it allows us to give you the most competitive offer, our *Lo****west Payment, Guaranteed.

Discover the simplicity of receiving fast financing for the equipment you need by clicking here.

Section 179 & its Benefits

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 22:52:44 +0000

So, what exactly is Section 179?

For starters, the name is in reference to Section 179 of the IRS tax code, which allows small to medium-sized businesses to deduct up to $1 million worth of qualifying equipment or software from their net income if it was purchased or financed within that tax year (which runs from April 1 – March 31). The goal of deducting the total depreciation expense of the equipment within the current year is to reduce a company’s taxable income and leave incentives for more purchasing in the future by optimizing cash flow.

Why it’s a good idea sign companies to update their equipment regularly

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 16:45:55 +0000

As any sign company knows, it is important for businesses to keep both digital and physical signage updated to continue to connect with customers. In the same way, it is valuable for sign companies to look to upgrade their equipment to be able to continue to attract these businesses. Here are three reasons why you should consider upgrading your sign equipment:

1. Improve Efficiency

With new technological advancements, equipment continues to becomes faster and optimizing the production process. With upgraded equipment improving your efficiency, you will be able to take on more projects which will ultimately lead to making more money for your business.

7 Types Of Semi-Trucks Explained

Mon, 02 Jul 2018 08:58:09 +0000

Have you been thinking about adding a semi truck to your company? These powerful vehicles can enable a business to substantially increase its cash flow along with lowering the transportation costs of going through a third-party service. Read below our brief explanations of 7 types of semi trucks.

1. Box Truck: Most popular for transporting furniture and appliances, comes in all sizes.

2. Dry Bulk: Transports dry materials in large quantities, examples include food, chemical, & building products.

3. Car Hauler: A trailer or semitrailer that aims to transport passenger vehicles via commercial truck

4. Flatbed: A truck that’s body is entirely flat with no roof or sides in its structure. Good for transporting large, heavy products that would not be able to fit in a fully-closed truck body

5. Tanker: Commonly used to carry oil and gases, a tanker is used to carry gases, dry bulk, and liquids in bulk.

6. Truck Tractor: According to the FWHA, this type of truck is considered as a non-cargo carrying power that is joined with a semi truck. Used to pull heavy machinery, vehicles, etc.

7. Water Trailer: Can carry high volumes of water, used in applications such as mining, sporting events, and even can transport for human consumption.

So now that you are aware of the types of semi trucks out there, and decide on wanting to utilize one for your business, what’s next? Yes you can certainly buy the upfront price outright, yet this is quite expensive due to their hefty price tag.

Once you decide the best type of truck for your company, American Capital Group can provide the flexible financing it needs to obtain a new or used semi truck. We will provide your trucking company with the lowest monthly payments in the market back by our lowest payment, guaranteed promise.

It takes 90 seconds to fill out our secured online application to get approved up to $150,000 without providing financials.

Utilizing the latest or used semi trucks doesn’t have to be expensive. At American Capital Group, we can provide your business with innovative financing solutions to help meet your equipment needs, with the lowest monthly payments.

Discover the simplicity of receiving fast financing and the equipment you need. Click here to secure the financing you need to help your business grow.

Are you Maximizing your Tax Savings for 2017?

Thu, 16 Nov 2017 18:49:28 +0000

Section 179 has increased the amount of benefits that equipment leasing already has to offer. For non-tax capital leases, small businesses can write off up to $500,000. For qualifying True Leases, the lease payment can be deducted on your taxes.

What is Section 179?

“Section 179 of the United States Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. § 179), allows a taxpayer to elect to deduct the cost of certain types of property on their income taxes as an expense, rather than requiring the cost of the property to be capitalized and depreciated.”

Why Most Small Businesses Choose To Finance

Tue, 15 Apr 2014 17:37:37 +0000

With a recovering economic climate, many maintain an optimistic outlook for the future. Most business owners agree that their business is worth much more than it was five years ago, and 58% of all American small business owners are looking to make capital improvements this year.

If you haven’t considered financing equipment for your business, you’re actually one of the few. According to the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association, 72% of businesses in the United States use some form of financing when acquiring new equipment.

How to Improve Your Credit Rating

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 16:51:55 +0000

How to Improve your Credit Rating

Credit ratings are important because it helps financial institutions, like ACG, determine the risk borrowers pose to them. Unforeseen circumstances and the financial hardships we have witnessed during the Recession can be fixed. Many businesses have been declined or are experiencing high payments from their financial institutions. This can be changed! You can improve your credit rating, save yourself money and open your path to new financial opportunities, by taking initiative right now. Our financial experts strongly suggest following these guidelines. They will benefit you in getting the most for your hard work and effort in any and every financial credit situation.

How to Start Your Own Business – For Dummies. Part 2

Wed, 09 May 2012 12:21:37 +0000

Finance your business – Loans, venture capital, grants, and investors are your new best friends.

There are numerous loan programs out there for you to find. Make sure to check more than one banks and see the options and various promotions that may be going on in your area.

*5.*Determine the legalities – Decide what type of business you want to be.

Decide what type of business meets not only your company needs, but your needs, in terms of financials, resources, and possible partnerships. From LLCs, to corporations, to sole proprietorships, to partnerships, the options are not only wide but very different.

*6.*Registers your name – Make sure that your name reflects the business and that it is properly register red with your state government.

Why using a line of credit is bad for business

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 17:41:59 +0000

Since interest rates are extremely low, most business owners think putting equipment on a line of credit is a good idea….it’s simple to do and doesn’t appear to entail much risk. However, unless you have plans to pay off your line within the next few months this mindset can drastically affect your ability to expand.

Interest rates are forecasted to rise dramatically in the next few years due to the massive debt our government is in. When you tie up your line of credit you are taking a large gamble on either being able to pay back your line quickly or betting that interest rates won’t rise. A more prudent way to fund the growth of your business is to lock in as many fixed payments as possible over as long of a period as possible. Whether it be an equipment lease or loan make sure the payments are fixed to protect your business from rising interest rates. Save your line of credit for emergencies only ie. if your boiler goes out and you need a quick fix.

Diversify Your Client Base or Else

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 17:27:40 +0000

Diversify your client base, or else…

Diversifying your client base can mean the difference between exceeding your monthly goals and falling short of your obligations. Whether it’s an up or down economy, you need to make sure that your client base is diversified. Why? You’ve heard the saying “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket”? If the basket falls…all the eggs break and that is exactly what can happen you put all of your stock in one client to continue coming back in order to make payroll and pay your monthly nut. Many businesses have one major client that makes up a large percentage of their monthly sales…the client is their life blood. What happens when that big client is unable to make a payment? The business that relies on them for the majority of their income gets behind on their bills and struggles to meet its other liabilities…creates a debt cycle that can easily spin out of control. Relying so heavily on a single client or product can easily compromise the future of your organization.

Learn on American Capital Group Blog

Financing Equipment: A Smart Investment Strategy for Business Owners

Want better financing? 3 Ways to improve how you look financially.

Section 179 Tax Deduction

What is Section 179?

15 Tips to help you ensure your business is successful

Strategic Planning for 2023

Are you getting the most from your bank/funding partner relationship?

Thinking of selling your equipment? How to make sure you get top dollar in today’s market.

Section 179 Tax Deduction

What is Section 179?

Tips for Protecting Your Credit & Securing Better Financing

Is it the Right Time to Invest in Equipment?

Business Resolutions: Plans to Start 2021 Strong

How to Protect Your Credit During an Economic Downturn

Reopening Your Business: 5 Things You Must Have in Your Plan

Site Safety and Social Distancing

How to Build a Pipeline During an Economic Downturn

6 Things You Need to Get Approved for Financing Right Now

How to Plan for Success after the Coronavirus Pandemic Subsides

How to Keep Engaged with Your Customers During Uncertain Times

How Small to Midsize Businesses Can Plan to Survive a Recession

5 Ways Your Business Can Access More Money

5 Ways Your Business Can Access More Money

Bank Lines of Credit

3 Common Problems That Cause Start Ups to Fail

1. Lack of Planning

2. Failing to Adapt

If you want to learn strategies about staying ahead of your competitors, read this blog. The key takeaway? Make sure your business has at least one factor that differentiates itself in your market, or else your company will likely fade among its competition.

3. Not Enough Financing

The idea of a lease or additional debt may seem intimidating as a small business owner. Navigating your way through the financial world and deceptive broker fees can feel overwhelming.

Meet with your accountant to discuss all different methods of financing, and consider the benefits of working with a direct lender.

Discover the simplicity of receiving fast financing for the equipment you need by clicking here.

Section 179 & its Benefits

Why it’s a good idea sign companies to update their equipment regularly

7 Types Of Semi-Trucks Explained

Have you been thinking about adding a semi truck to your company? These powerful vehicles can enable a business to substantially increase its cash flow along with lowering the transportation costs of going through a third-party service. Read below our brief explanations of 7 types of semi trucks.

1. Box Truck: Most popular for transporting furniture and appliances, comes in all sizes.

2. Dry Bulk: Transports dry materials in large quantities, examples include food, chemical, & building products.

3. Car Hauler: A trailer or semitrailer that aims to transport passenger vehicles via commercial truck

4. Flatbed: A truck that’s body is entirely flat with no roof or sides in its structure. Good for transporting large, heavy products that would not be able to fit in a fully-closed truck body

5. Tanker: Commonly used to carry oil and gases, a tanker is used to carry gases, dry bulk, and liquids in bulk.

6. Truck Tractor: According to the FWHA, this type of truck is considered as a non-cargo carrying power that is joined with a semi truck. Used to pull heavy machinery, vehicles, etc.

7. Water Trailer: Can carry high volumes of water, used in applications such as mining, sporting events, and even can transport for human consumption.

So now that you are aware of the types of semi trucks out there, and decide on wanting to utilize one for your business, what’s next? Yes you can certainly buy the upfront price outright, yet this is quite expensive due to their hefty price tag.

Once you decide the best type of truck for your company, American Capital Group can provide the flexible financing it needs to obtain a new or used semi truck. We will provide your trucking company with the lowest monthly payments in the market back by our lowest payment, guaranteed promise.

It takes 90 seconds to fill out our secured online application to get approved up to $150,000 without providing financials.

Utilizing the latest or used semi trucks doesn’t have to be expensive. At American Capital Group, we can provide your business with innovative financing solutions to help meet your equipment needs, with the lowest monthly payments.

Discover the simplicity of receiving fast financing and the equipment you need. Click here to secure the financing you need to help your business grow.

Are you Maximizing your Tax Savings for 2017?

Why Most Small Businesses Choose To Finance

How to Improve Your Credit Rating

How to Start Your Own Business – For Dummies. Part 2

Why using a line of credit is bad for business

Diversify Your Client Base or Else