<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8" standalone="yes"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"><channel><title>Other on American Capital Group Blog</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/</link><description>Recent content in Other on American Capital Group Blog</description><generator>Hugo</generator><language>en-us</language><lastBuildDate>Wed, 21 Dec 2022 17:36:02 +0000</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/index.xml" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><item><title>Year End Financial Planning</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/year-end-financial-planning/</link><pubDate>Wed, 21 Dec 2022 17:36:02 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/year-end-financial-planning/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;The end of the year is quickly approaching and if your priority is to save on both business and personal income tax in April there are a few tax moves to consider before December 31st.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;On the business side&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;If you are on a cash-based accounting method, consider delaying sending invoices to your customers until January. When these invoices are paid in January you are effectively delaying your income tax on these until 2024. If you have receivables or invoices outstanding and aren’t hurting for cash flow, then collecting on them in January enables you to do the same thing.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>How to make sure your accountant is working for you</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/how-to-make-sure-your-accountant-is-working-for-you/</link><pubDate>Mon, 11 Apr 2022 20:25:46 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/how-to-make-sure-your-accountant-is-working-for-you/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;A good accountant is worth the extra expense and here are a few tips to ensure you have the right person in place working for you.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;1. Have your accountant prepare both your business and personal taxes.&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;This way they have an accurate picture of how your business income impacts your personal taxes. They should also be able to give you recommendations on whether it makes sense for your corporation to pay you a salary vs pay income distributions as each are taxed differently.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Don’t Bank On It</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/dont-bank-on-it/</link><pubDate>Wed, 30 Mar 2022 12:58:49 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/dont-bank-on-it/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;We have recently spoken with numerous customers that are sharing their unique stories on what they are experiencing in the current banking environment.  This insight may help your company make an informed decision on how to grow your business.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;One of our customer’s used their bank to purchase a $100,000 excavator. The bank gave them a 3-year loan but required they deposit $100,000 in Certificates of Deposit as collateral that had different lengths of time for redemption over the 3-year period. It was up to the customer to remember to request the redemption at the designated time or the money would roll-over. Put simply, why commit funds to the bank only for them to then lend that same money back to you at a higher interest rate?&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Building Wealth for Your Business Over Time</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/building-wealth-for-your-business-over-time/</link><pubDate>Wed, 09 Mar 2022 18:20:01 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/building-wealth-for-your-business-over-time/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;One of the best strategies to build equity and wealth for your business is by investing in real estate. This strategy has several short-term and long-term benefits that can make a significant difference to the long-term value of your company.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;First consider the basic principle that paying rent on your space puts you at a disadvantage. Consider the following:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ol&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Rents will increase over time.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;You have limited control over improvements that can be made to your space.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;If your landlord decides to sell the building or not renew the lease you can face costly moving expenses.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Although your rental expenses can be deducted from your taxable income, you are not paying down an asset.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Although your rental expenses can be deducted from your taxable income you are not paying down an asset. Imagine the 5 or 10 years of monthly rental costs that can be used instead to pay down principle on a business asset&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ol&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Owning your location gives you some compelling benefits:&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Section 179 vs Bonus Depreciation</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/section-179-vs-bonus-depreciation/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Aug 2021 05:09:49 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/section-179-vs-bonus-depreciation/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;What are the differences between Section 179 and Bonus Depreciation?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Prior readings: Section 179 Benefits, Bonus Depreciation&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Section 179 is an IRS tax code that allows you to recover all or part of the cost of qualifying equipment, by deducting it in the year you put it into service, and Bonus Depreciation is another incentive that allows businesses to immediately deduct a percentage of the purchase price of eligible assets, rather than write them off, over the useful life of the asset. Given how similar these two tax incentives are, here are some differences so you can understand how they are separated in your books.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Bonus Depreciation</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/bonus-depreciation/</link><pubDate>Wed, 23 Jun 2021 05:32:32 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/bonus-depreciation/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;Now that you know about &lt;a href="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/learn/section-179-tax-deduction/"&gt;Section 179&lt;/a&gt;, it’s also important to know about Bonus Depreciation. Bonus Depreciation is another incentive that allows businesses to immediately deduct a percentage of the purchase price of eligible assets, rather than write them off, over the useful life of the asset. It’s not offered every year, but for 2021 it’s being offered at 100%, meaning it’s possible to deduct the entire purchase from your 2021 tax obligations. It’s common practice to take your Section 179 deduction followed by Bonus depreciation.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>The Real Cost of Paying with Cash</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/the-real-cost-of-paying-with-cash/</link><pubDate>Thu, 11 Feb 2021 22:55:57 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/the-real-cost-of-paying-with-cash/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;It seems to be a common belief that paying in cash is always the least expensive option, but is that really true if we consider all the risk factors of making a large business purchase?&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;In today’s economy, a good portion of small business owners were successful in securing PPP funds or have excess capital to fund their large purchases, such as equipment. Many owners feel that paying cash for their equipment is the least risky way to expand their operations.  Their two main reasons are:&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>3 Things Your Outdated Equipment is Costing You</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/3-things-your-outdated-equipment-is-costing-you/</link><pubDate>Tue, 27 Oct 2020 15:02:27 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/3-things-your-outdated-equipment-is-costing-you/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;It may seem like your outdated equipment is only doing you good, but the opportunity cost of not updating it could be the difference of thousands of dollars. Here are things your current equipment could be costing you.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 id="1-time"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;1. Time&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Machinery, or other equipment, is likely the lifeblood of your company. If your outdated equipment is slow to operate, breaking down often, or takes forever to load, it’s time to upgrade. All that collective time lost per day results in less jobs completed and less money in your pockets. If low efficiency is an issue due to your outdated equipment, you could be missing out on thousands of dollars per month. Not to mention, a post-COIVID-19 world has made many industries focus on using more digital processes, making customers expect faster turnaround times.  Save yourself (and your customer) some time by investing in faster, more efficient machinery.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>New Ways to Think About Boosting Sales</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/new-ways-to-think-about-boosting-sales/</link><pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2020 17:07:05 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/new-ways-to-think-about-boosting-sales/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;Seasonal peaks and valleys are common in business, and most business owners have developed strategies that carry them through the slower times. Spring is normally the time to take stock, and to plan creative new ways to boost sales and ensure higher profits for the coming year.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;This spring, however, is different. The dramatic spread of the novel Coronavirus has caused a ripple effect that will leave no business untouched.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>For the Community</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/for-the-community-2/</link><pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2020 21:01:35 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/for-the-community-2/</guid><description>&lt;h1&gt;&lt;/h1&gt;
&lt;h1 id="acgs-response-to-covid-19"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;ACG’s Response to COVID-19&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h1&gt;
&lt;p&gt;At American Capital Group, we are committed to helping our community during these unprecedented times. Being able to provide you resources to help keep you healthy, informed, and in business are our goals with the ACG Community Resources, which you can find next to the Contact Us tab or by clicking the button below.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/community-resources/"&gt;ACG Community Resources&lt;/a&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/family.png"&gt;&lt;img src="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/family.png" alt="" title="family"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/laptop.png"&gt;&lt;img src="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/laptop.png" alt="" title="laptop"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/handsoap.png"&gt;&lt;img src="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/handsoap.png" alt="" title="handsoap"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Are You at Risk if Your Bank is Under Stress?</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/are-you-at-risk-if-your-bank-is-under-stress/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2020 00:03:25 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/are-you-at-risk-if-your-bank-is-under-stress/</guid><description>&lt;h1 id="are-you-at-risk-if-your-bank-is-under-stress"&gt;Are You at Risk if Your Bank is Under Stress?&lt;/h1&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Are you safe in the event that your bank limits or restricts your borrowing or lending abilities? Most people aren’t, which is why you should know more about the resources you have in the event of an economic downturn, or better, before you find yourself in a hole you can’t get out of.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Start by reviewing your lines of credit, here are a few things you should be aware of:&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Top 3 Ways to Build Your Credit</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/top-3-ways-to-build-your-credit/</link><pubDate>Mon, 10 Feb 2020 13:00:39 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/top-3-ways-to-build-your-credit/</guid><description>&lt;h3 id="building-and-maintaining-your-business-credit-is-crucial-to-the-health-of-every-company-improving-your-credit-to-get-better-terms-or-larger-approvals-doesnt-have-to-be-an-uphill-battle-follow-these-three-rules-so-you-can-build-your-credit-fast-and-make-your-business-more-trustworthy-to-work-with"&gt;Building and maintaining your business credit is crucial to the health of every company. Improving your credit to get better terms or larger approvals doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. Follow these three rules so you can build your credit fast and make your business more trustworthy to work with.&lt;/h3&gt;
&lt;h3 id="no-late-payments"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;No Late Payments&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;
&lt;h4 id="remember-that-your-credit-is-essentially-a-measurement-of-your-trustworthiness-when-it-comes-to-paying-creditors-back-a-late-payment-diminishes-that-trust-and-shows-that-you-are-a-risky-person-to-lend-money-to-because-you-have-an-issue-paying-on-time"&gt;Remember that your credit is essentially a measurement of your trustworthiness when it comes to paying creditors back. A late payment diminishes that trust, and shows that you are a risky person to lend money to because you have an issue paying on time.&lt;/h4&gt;
&lt;h4 id="avoid-any-type-of-late-payment-a-late-payment-will-be-reported-if-you-pass-the-30-day-mark-but-dont-let-the-illusion-of-a-grace-period-fool-you-dont-get-into-the-habit-of-making-late-payments-because-it-will-ding-your-credit-and-the-adverse-affects-roll-downhill-from-there-to-avoid-late-payments-set-up-email-or-text-reminders-or-set-up-reminders-in-your-personal-calendar-another-option-is-to-sign-up-for-automatic-payments-so-you-never-have-to-worry-about-missing-a-date-however-if-you-pay-off-your-entire-amount-every-month-which-is-also-highly-recommended-be-sure-that-you-have-enough-funds-in-your-account-so-you-dont-end-up-being-charged-an-overdraft-fee-or-ruining-your-cash-flow-remember-that-you-have-the-power-to-choose-what-your-payment-date-will-be-so-make-it-a-date-when-you-know-you-have-more-funds-in-your-account-or-when-youre-more-likely-to-remember-to-pay-your-bill"&gt;Avoid any type of late payment. A late payment will be reported if you pass the 30 day mark, but don’t let the illusion of a grace period fool you. Don’t get into the habit of making late payments because it will ding your credit and the adverse affects roll downhill from there. To avoid late payments, set up email or text reminders, or set up reminders in your personal calendar. Another option is to sign up for automatic payments so you never have to worry about missing a date. However, if you pay off your entire amount every month (which is also highly recommended) be sure that you have enough funds in your account so you don’t end up being charged an overdraft fee or ruining your cash flow. Remember that you have the power to choose what your payment date will be, so make it a date when you know you have more funds in your account or when you’re more likely to remember to pay your bill.&lt;/h4&gt;
&lt;h3 id="lower-your-credit-utilization"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Lower your Credit Utilization&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;
&lt;h4 id="simply-put-dont-use-more-than-20-percent-of-the-credit-available-to-you-paying-off-large-sums-owed-or-even-beginning-to-will-greatly-increase-your-credit-score-ridding-yourself-of-debt-lowers-your-credit-utilization-which-indicates-that-youre-more-likely-to-be-able-to-pay-your-bills-on-time-keep-in-mind-that-your-credit-utilization-is-an-important-factor-in-determining-your-credit-score-anything-above-30-percent-utilization-could-begin-to-lower-it-if-you-need-more-lines-of-credit-to-prevent-over-utilizing-your-current-account-do-so-as-long-as-you-are-able-to-pay-both-lines-off-on-time"&gt;Simply put, don’t use more than 20 percent of the credit available to you. Paying off large sums owed (or even beginning to) will greatly increase your credit score. Ridding yourself of debt lowers your credit utilization which indicates that you’re more likely to be able to pay your bills on time. Keep in mind that your credit utilization is an important factor in determining your credit score. Anything above 30 percent utilization could begin to lower it. If you need more lines of credit to prevent over utilizing your current account, do so as long as you are able to pay both lines off on time.&lt;/h4&gt;
&lt;h3 id="pay-twice-a-billing-cycle"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Pay Twice a Billing Cycle&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;
&lt;h4 id="this-ties-our-previous-two-tips-together-by-paying-down-your-expenses-twice-a-month-youll-ensure-there-are-no-late-payments-while-simultaneously-lowering-your-credit-utilization-this-is-how-everything-ties-together-to-help-you-build-credit-paying-twice-a-cycle-shows-that-you-are-aware-of-your-expenses-and-that-you-watch-what-you-borrow-it-also-creates-the-healthy-habits-of-watching-your-monthly-and-bi-weekly-expenditure-so-you-can-better-manage-your-spending-habits"&gt;This ties our previous two tips together. By paying down your expenses twice a month you’ll ensure there are no late payments, while simultaneously lowering your credit utilization. This is how everything ties together to help you build credit. Paying twice a cycle shows that you are aware of your expenses and that you watch what you borrow. It also creates the healthy habits of watching your monthly (and bi-weekly) expenditure so you can better manage your spending habits.&lt;/h4&gt;
&lt;h4&gt;&lt;/h4&gt;</description></item><item><title>2019 Small Business Checklist</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/2019-small-business-checklist/</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 Feb 2019 17:05:19 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/2019-small-business-checklist/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;As we are almost two months into the year, it is important for your small business to stay on track of its goals and priorities. With so many new business and technological trends, it is important to know how to deal with the changing environment.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;This small business checklist will help your business be well prepared for whatever 2019 throws your way.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Ask staff about their needs &amp;amp; priorities&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Keep your employees in mind while trying to grow your business. It is critical to make sure everything is working internally before your business can make steps externally.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Understanding Trump’s Tariff Plan &amp; How It Affects You</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/understanding-trumps-tariff-how-it-affects-you/</link><pubDate>Wed, 14 Mar 2018 21:09:53 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/understanding-trumps-tariff-how-it-affects-you/</guid><description>&lt;h2 id="president-trump-last-thursday-announced-his-tariff-plan-on-imports-of-steel-and-aluminum-despite-its-recent-controversy-this-blog-will-briefly-focus-on-solely-the-components-of-the-plan-and-its-impact"&gt;President Trump last Thursday announced his tariff plan on imports of steel and aluminum. Despite its recent controversy, this blog will briefly focus on solely the components of the plan and its impact.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h1 id="a-brief-summary-of-trumps-tariffs"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;A Brief Summary of Trump’s Tariffs&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h1&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="to-start-first--foremost-it-is-important-to-understand-what-the-tariff-is-all-about"&gt;To start, first &amp;amp; foremost it is important to understand what the tariff is all about.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Dreams-dont-work-unless-you-do..jpg"&gt;&lt;img src="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Dreams-dont-work-unless-you-do..jpg" alt=""&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h1&gt;&lt;/h1&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="trumps-plan-includes-a-25-tariff-on-steel-imports-and-a-10-tariff-on-aluminum-this-plan-exempts-canada-and-mexico-and-leaves-it-open-for-countries-to-negotiate-a-deal-to-alleviate-the-tariff"&gt;Trump’s plan includes a 25% tariff on steel imports, and a 10% tariff on aluminum. This plan exempts Canada and Mexico, and leaves it open for countries to negotiate a deal to alleviate the tariff.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h1 id="so-how-does-it-affect-me"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;So how does it affect me?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h1&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="trumps-tariffs-briefly-stated-will-affect-everyone"&gt;Trump’s tariffs, briefly stated, will affect everyone.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="industries"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Industries&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="most-american-industries-rely-on-steel-and-aluminum-imports-from-car-manufacturers-to-construction-companies-while-us-steel-industries-benefit-from-this-tariff-most-industries-will-be-hit-with-increased-costs-of-production-due-to-resources-becoming-more-expensive"&gt;Most American industries rely on steel and aluminum imports, from car manufacturers to construction companies. While U.S. steel industries benefit from this tariff, most industries will be hit with increased costs of production, due to resources becoming more expensive.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="consumers"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Consumers&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="due-to-the-tariffs-many-businesses-will-incur-higher-costs-to-produce-which-will-translate-into-more-expensive-products-on-the-consumer-end-household-appliances-cars-electronics-food-packaging-beer-packaging-building-materials-are-but-few-of-many-products-that-will-most-likely-face-an-increase-in-price"&gt;Due to the tariffs, many businesses will incur higher costs to produce, which will translate into more expensive products on the consumer-end. Household appliances, cars, electronics, food packaging, beer packaging, building materials, are but few of many products that will most likely face an increase in price.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="small-businesses"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Small Businesses&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="small-businesses-like-industries-and-consumers-will-also-incur-an-increased-cost-to-manufacture-and-price-markups-for-steel-related-products-one-way-that-small-businesses-will-be-hurt-by-these-tariffs-is-when-it-comes-to-their-equipment-needs-since-the-federal-reserve-is-set-to-raise-the-cost-of-money-and-tighten-credit-3-4-times-in-2018-this-will-make-it-even-more-expensive-for-business-owners-to-obtain-equipment-in-fact-did-you-know-that-the-next-schedule-rate-hike-is-expected-to-be-announced-this-month-around-march-22nd"&gt;Small businesses, like industries and consumers, will also incur an increased cost to manufacture, and price markups for steel-related products. One way that small businesses will be hurt by these tariffs is when it comes to their equipment needs. Since the Federal Reserve is set to raise the cost of money and tighten credit 3-4 times in 2018, this will make it even more expensive for business owners to obtain equipment. In fact, did you know that the next schedule rate hike is expected to be announced this &lt;em&gt;month, around March 22nd&lt;/em&gt;?&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;hr&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="if-your-business-does-not-want-to-incur-the-extra-costs-of-tariffs-and-rate-hikes-now-more-than-ever-do-you-need-to-plan-accordingly-by-getting-your-equipment-now-instead-of-waiting-through-2-more-hikes-you-not-only-save-your-company-money-but-avoid-paying-a-much-larger-price-for-the-same-piece-of-equipment"&gt;If your business does not want to incur the extra costs of tariffs and rate hikes, now more than ever do you need to plan accordingly. By getting your equipment now, instead of waiting through 2 more hikes, you not only save your company money, but avoid paying a much larger price for the same piece of equipment.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="american-capital-group-has-the-capability-of-supporting-new-and-used-equipment-purchases-and-will-accommodate-private-seller-sales-if-you-are-considering-adding-new-equipment-vehicles-or-other-business-use-equipment-fill-out-our-90-second-application-to-secure-the-financing-you-need-get-the-financing-you-need-for-your-equipment-today-to-avoid-paying-for-tomorrows-price"&gt;American Capital Group has the capability of supporting new and used equipment purchases, and will accommodate private seller sales. &lt;strong&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.acgcapital.com/click2/equipment-leasing-products/equipment-financing-leasing.aspx?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI27ei3NnE2QIVlRsBCh0mQApGEAEYAiAAEgLx3PD_BwE"&gt;If you are considering adding new equipment, vehicles, or other business-use equipment, fill out our 90-second application to secure the financing you need&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/strong&gt; Get the financing you need for your equipment today, to avoid paying for tomorrow’s price.&lt;/h2&gt;</description></item><item><title>Choosing the Best 3D Printer For Your Business</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/choosing-the-best-3d-printer-for-your-business/</link><pubDate>Wed, 14 Mar 2018 14:50:55 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/choosing-the-best-3d-printer-for-your-business/</guid><description>&lt;h2 id="3d-printers-can-be-very-beneficial-to-a-small-business-owner-from-assisting-in-product-development-to-customizing-products-and-cutting-costs-these-are-few-of-many-reasons-why-a-3d-printer-can-help-grow-and-expand-your-company"&gt;3D printers can be very beneficial to a small business owner. From assisting in product development, to customizing products, and cutting costs, these are few of many reasons why a 3D printer can help grow and expand your company.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="but-how-do-i-choose-a-3d-printer-what-type-of-3d-printer-is-best-suited-for-my-business-read-below-to-learn-about-the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-the-different-types-of-3d-printers"&gt;But how do I choose a 3D printer? What type of 3D printer is best suited for my business? Read below to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of 3D printers.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="1-sla-stereolithography"&gt;1. &lt;strong&gt;(SLA) Stereolithography&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="pros-useful-for-prototyping-short-run-parts-high-quality-high-speed-in-high-volume"&gt;Pros: Useful for prototyping, short-run parts, high-quality, high-speed in high volume&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="cons-price-some-limitations-of-use"&gt;Cons: Price, Some limitations of use&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="2-dlp-digital-light-processing"&gt;2. &lt;strong&gt;(DLP) Digital Light Processing&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="pros-high-resolution-in-short-volume-high-speed-in-short-volume-lower-cost"&gt;Pros: High resolution in short volume, high-speed in short volume, lower cost&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="cons-unable-to-print-high-resolution-in-high-volume-large-in-size"&gt;Cons: Unable to print high resolution in high volume, large in size&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="3-fdm-fused-deposition-modeling"&gt;3. &lt;strong&gt;(FDM) Fused Deposition Modeling&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="pros-useful-for-prototyping-easy-to-maintain-and-replace-lower-cost"&gt;Pros: Useful for prototyping, easy to maintain and replace, lower cost&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="cons-slow-printing-multiple-parts-layering-flaws"&gt;Cons: Slow printing multiple parts, layering flaws&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="4-ebm-electron-beam-melting"&gt;4. &lt;strong&gt;(EBM) Electron Beam Melting&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="pros-useful-for-industrial-3d-printing-speed"&gt;Pros: Useful for industrial 3D printing, speed&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="cons-price-less-precise-in-comparison-to-other-devices"&gt;Cons: Price, less precise in comparison to other devices&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="5-lmd-laser-metal-deposition"&gt;5. &lt;strong&gt;(LMD) Laser Metal Deposition&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="pros-reduced-costs-fast-cooling-rates-faster-production-times"&gt;Pros: Reduced costs, fast cooling rates, faster production times&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="cons-not-as-mainstream-harder-to-obtain"&gt;Cons: Not as mainstream, harder to obtain&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="6-lom-laminated-object-manufacturing"&gt;6. &lt;strong&gt;(LOM) Laminated Object Manufacturing&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="pros-useful-for-large-scale-projects-quick-high-accuracy"&gt;Pros: Useful for large-scale projects, quick, high accuracy&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="cons-not-useful-for-prototype-functioning-more-labor-to-manage-production-and"&gt;Cons: Not useful for prototype functioning, more labor to manage production and&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="hazards"&gt;hazards&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="7-slm-selective-laser-melting"&gt;7. &lt;strong&gt;(SLM) Selective Laser Melting&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="pros-minimal-restrictions-quick-production"&gt;Pros: Minimal restrictions, quick production&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="cons-large-in-size-high-power-required-to-operate-high-temperature-gradients"&gt;Cons: Large in size, high power required to operate, high temperature gradients&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="8-sls-selective-laser-sintering"&gt;8. &lt;strong&gt;(SLS) Selective Laser Sintering&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="pros-quick-production-cost-effective-production-minimal-restrictions"&gt;Pros: Quick production, cost-effective production, minimal restrictions&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="cons-rough-surface-finish"&gt;Cons: Rough surface finish&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;hr&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="an-important-thing-to-note-about-owning-a-3d-printer-is-that-although-it-can-help-expand-and-increase-profits-they-often-have-a-hefty-price-tag-to-purchase-upfront-also-3d-printing-technology-is-constantly-changing-which-can-leave-a-business-owner-with-out-of-date-equipment-as-a-small-business-owner-who-may-not-have-the-capital-upfront-wants-to-utilize-the-latest-3d-printing-technology-or-wants-to-receive-tax-benefits-on-equipment-consider-other-options-than-simply-buying"&gt;An important thing to note about owning a 3D printer is that although it can help expand and increase profits, they often have a hefty price tag to purchase upfront. Also, 3D printing technology is constantly changing, which can leave a business owner with out-of-date equipment. As a small business owner who may not have the capital upfront, wants to utilize the latest 3D printing technology, or wants to receive tax benefits on equipment, consider other options than simply buying.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="at-american-capital-group-we-provide-innovative-financing-solutions-to-help-your-companys-equipment-needs-with-our-90-day-deferral-program-your-business-can-start-utilizing-and-make-money-off-the-latest-3d-printer-today-and-not-have-to-make-its-first-full-payment-until-3-months-later"&gt;At American Capital Group, we provide innovative financing solutions to help your company’s equipment needs. With our 90-Day deferral program, your business can start utilizing and make money off the latest 3D printer &lt;a href="https://www.acgcapital.com/equipment-leasing-products/3d-printer-leasing.aspx"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;today&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/a&gt;, and not have to make its first full payment until 3 months later.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="discover-the-simplicity-of-receiving-fast-financing-and-the-equipment-you-need-at-the-lowest-payment-in-the-market-click-here-to-secure-the-financing-you-need-to-help-your-business-grow"&gt;Discover the simplicity of receiving fast financing and the equipment you need at the lowest payment in the market. &lt;a href="https://www.acgcapital.com/click2/equipment-leasing-products/equipment-financing-leasing.aspx?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI27ei3NnE2QIVlRsBCh0mQApGEAEYAiAAEgLx3PD_BwE"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Click here&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/a&gt; to secure the financing you need to help your business grow.&lt;/h2&gt;</description></item><item><title>Want To Start A Video Production Company? Here’s The Equipment You Will Need.</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/want-to-start-a-video-production-company-heres-the-equipment-you-will-need/</link><pubDate>Wed, 28 Feb 2018 15:58:40 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/want-to-start-a-video-production-company-heres-the-equipment-you-will-need/</guid><description>&lt;hr&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h1 id="lights-camera-and-more-even-equipment"&gt;Lights…. Camera… And More Even Equipment?&lt;/h1&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="starting-a-video-production-company-doesnt-have-to-feel-overwhelming-while-the-start-up-costs-for-this-industry-may-seem-discouraging-in-reality-you-do-not-need-as-much-capital-upfront-as-you-would-think"&gt;Starting a video production company doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. While the start-up costs for this industry may seem discouraging, in reality you do not need as much capital upfront as you would think.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="bottom-line-whether-your-business-is-catered-towards-a-particular-market-or-individual-clients-here-is-the-basic-equipment-that-your-company-will-need-to-get-started"&gt;Bottom line, whether your business is catered towards a particular market or individual clients, here is the basic equipment that your company will need to get started:&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;ol&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;h2 id="camera"&gt;Camera&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;h2 id="computers"&gt;Computers&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;h2 id="studio"&gt;Studio&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;h2 id="stabilizers"&gt;Stabilizers&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;h2 id="lighting"&gt;Lighting&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;h2 id="microphones"&gt;Microphones&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;h2 id="lenses"&gt;Lenses&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;h2 id="external-hard-drives"&gt;External Hard Drives&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ol&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="from-here-you-can-decide-depending-on-your-business-what-additional-equipment-you-need-a-challenge-that-many-aspiring-entrepreneurs-in-this-industry-face-is-while-focusing-on-executing-their-vision-they-often-lose-sight-on-the-numbers-writing-a-business-plan-defining-a-budget-early-on-and-forecasting-can-help-your-business-stay-on-top-of-its-costs-although-owning-the-latest-camera-equipment-is-certainly-attractive-evaluate-if-your-company-can-truly-afford-it"&gt;From here, you can decide depending on your business what additional equipment you need. A challenge that many aspiring entrepreneurs in this industry face is while focusing on executing their vision, they often lose sight on the numbers. Writing a business plan, defining a budget early on, and forecasting can help your business stay on top of its costs. Although owning the latest camera equipment is certainly attractive, evaluate if your company can truly afford it.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="create-long-and-short-terms-goals-that-rely-on-customer-growth-and-increased-profits-in-order-to-upgrade-your-tools-also-evaluate-whether-owning-your-equipment-is-a-cost-effective-idea-for-your-business-since-the-technology-in-this-industry-is-often-changing-and-improving-consider-the-advantages-of-utilizing-the-latest-video-production-equipment-and-how-it-can-make-your-business-stand-out-among-its-competitors"&gt;Create long and short-terms goals that rely on customer growth and increased profits in order to upgrade your tools. Also, evaluate whether owning your equipment is a cost-effective idea for your business, since the technology in this industry is often changing and improving. Consider the advantages of utilizing the latest video production equipment, and how it can make your business stand out among its competitors.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="dont-let-the-hassle-of-owning-out-of-date-equipment-get-in-the-way-of-your-creative-vision-think-smart-about-your-equipment-needs-and-consider-options-such-as-financing-and-leasing-your-equipment-instead-of-buying"&gt;Don’t let the hassle of owning out-of-date equipment get in the way of your creative vision. Think smart about your equipment needs, and consider options such as financing and leasing your equipment instead of buying.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;hr&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="at-american-capital-group-for-25-years-we-have-provided-innovative-financing-solutions-from-startups-to-decades-old-businesses-utilize-our-90-day-deferral-program-fastrack-equipment-line-and-equipment-now-programs-with-the-confidence-that-you-are-getting-the-lowest-payment-in-the-market"&gt;At American Capital Group, for 25 years we have provided innovative financing solutions from startups to decades-old businesses. Utilize our 90-day-deferral program, Fastrack, Equipment Line, and Equipment Now programs, with the confidence that you are getting the lowest payment in the market.&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h2 id="discover-how-it-takes-less-than-minutes-to-fill-out-our-secured-online-application-while-getting-approved-up-to-150000-without-financials-click-here-to-secure-the-financing-your-video-production-company-needs-to-execute-its-story"&gt;Discover how it takes less than minutes to fill out our secured, online application, while getting approved up to $150,000 without financials. &lt;a href="https://www.acgcapital.com/click2/equipment-leasing-products/equipment-financing-leasing.aspx?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI27ei3NnE2QIVlRsBCh0mQApGEAEYAiAAEgLx3PD_BwE"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Click Here&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/a&gt; to secure the financing your video production company needs to execute its story.&lt;/h2&gt;</description></item><item><title>5 Mistakes To Avoid For Your Business To Succeed</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/5-mistakes-to-avoid-for-your-business-to-succeed/</link><pubDate>Wed, 14 Feb 2018 16:51:23 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/5-mistakes-to-avoid-for-your-business-to-succeed/</guid><description>&lt;h1 id="1-not-defining-your-competitive-advantage"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;1. Not Defining Your Competitive Advantage&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h1&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;What makes your business unique?&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;How do you stand out among your competitors?&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;What are you doing differently than everyone else?&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;These are the questions that every small business should ask itself and know the answer to. Whether it be offering a unique product, utilizing competitive customer service, or working in a niche market, know what makes your company unique. If your business does not have a differentiating characteristic, adopt one, or else your company will likely fade among its competition.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>5 Small Changes To Save Your Business Money Today</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/5-small-changes-to-save-your-business-money-today/</link><pubDate>Wed, 07 Feb 2018 18:12:28 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/5-small-changes-to-save-your-business-money-today/</guid><description>&lt;h2 id="1-think--save-green-for-your-company"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;1. Think &amp;amp; Save Green For Your Company&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Yes, you can actually do good and make your wallet feel good too. Some things that help cut costs include:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ol&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Turning off &lt;a href="https://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/fresh-greens/2009/03/25/simple-green-step-shut-down-your-computer-every-night"&gt;&lt;em&gt;computers after-hours&lt;/em&gt;.&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Switching to LED or CFL light bulbs.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Consider replacing current irrigation system with smart irrigation technology&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;(which could potentially cut your water bill &lt;em&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.livingwatersmart.com.au/articles/why-should-i-save-water-my-business"&gt;up to 30%&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/em&gt;).&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Switching to &lt;a href="https://www.thebalance.com/save-money-with-solar-energy-for-your-business-4108504"&gt;solar power&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ol&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Installing new technology, such as solar paneling, can help your business not only save money, but market itself to be green and sustainable. If your business does not have the capital to buy this equipment upfront, consider &lt;a href="https://www.acgcapital.com/equipmentline/default.aspx"&gt;financing or leasing&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Equipment Financing: Finding The Best Deal For Your Business</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/equipment-financing-finding-the-best-deal-for-your-business/</link><pubDate>Wed, 31 Jan 2018 21:25:15 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/equipment-financing-finding-the-best-deal-for-your-business/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;Equipment financing can be a vital component to help your company expand. It gives a business owner the opportunity to obtain equipment that can generate revenue and make minimal payments over a period of time. Rather than just simply purchasing new equipment outright, financing provides a viable alternative, along with helping you get your equipment faster.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/EXPEDITION-1.png"&gt;&lt;img src="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/EXPEDITION-1.png" alt=""&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;So now that you are thinking about financing equipment for your company, how does it all work? There are different options to get capital, such as going through a bank, broker, etc. Yet navigating through these options can be confusing, filled with lengthy paperwork, and are scattered with hidden fees. As a business owner, your time is valuable, so why complicate the process? At American Capital Group, your company can get the financing it needs in minutes, in as easy as &lt;em&gt;four simple steps&lt;/em&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Everything You Need To Know About the New 2018 Section 179 Tax Deduction &amp; How You Can Actually Benefit From It</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/1227/</link><pubDate>Wed, 24 Jan 2018 23:45:46 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/1227/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;Want to deduct the purchase price of that piece of equipment or software you purchased this year?        Well now you can!&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;This new IRS tax code means that if your piece of equipment or software financed during the tax                year qualifies, you can deduct the &lt;strong&gt;complete&lt;/strong&gt; purchase price off your gross income.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Components of Section 179 Deduction:&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Total deduction limit for assets is $1,000,000 (a $500,000 increase from 2017).&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Equipment/ asset (new or used condition) that was financed, purchased, or leased during the tax year 2018 qualifies for this deduction.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1776.png"&gt;&lt;img src="https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1776-298x300.png" alt=""&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Celebrating 20 Years Of Business</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/celebrating-20-years-of-business/</link><pubDate>Tue, 08 Dec 2015 16:02:02 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/celebrating-20-years-of-business/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;In 2015, American Capital Group celebrated our 20th anniversary. We have had the true pleasure of helping our customers grow their businesses for 20 years. American Capital Group strongly believes in our mission statement, which includes enhancing the lives of our customers, employees and community. With the support of our valued customers, we hope to  continue to follow that mission for many more years to come.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Wishing Our Customers A Happy Thanksgiving</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/wishing-our-customers-a-happy-thanksgiving/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Nov 2015 17:42:24 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/wishing-our-customers-a-happy-thanksgiving/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;American Capital Group would like to wish our customers and their families a safe and happy Thanksgiving. We are extremely thankful for each and every one of our customers over the past 20 years. Our greatest joy is helping our customers’ businesses grow. Continue reading to learn more about how we were able to do that this past year:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;blockquote&gt;
&lt;p&gt;“Customer for life.” -Justin Clark, CF Cutting&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;“Jim was very helpful from the first phone call to the final paperwork. He is excellent and very knowledgeable.” -Dorris Primm, The Print Factory&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Get The Most From Your Tradeshow Experience</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/how-to-get-the-most-from-your-tradeshow-experience/</link><pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2015 17:27:04 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/how-to-get-the-most-from-your-tradeshow-experience/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;Trade shows are excellent ways to learn about advances in your field, meet new industry contacts, and shop for equipment! If you’ll be heading to a trade show this year, here are some tips for making the most of your experience.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;1. Plan ahead&lt;/strong&gt;: Schedule the seminars you’d most like to attend, and identify who you want to meet. Experts recommend reaching out to potential contacts before the show. The more you plan ahead, the better prepared you’ll be come show time.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Three Steps To Protect Your Credit</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/three-steps-to-protect-your-credit/</link><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2015 15:14:57 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/three-steps-to-protect-your-credit/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;This year, 15 million Americans will be victims of identity theft. Protecting your credit from fraud may seem like a daunting task, but with these three simple precautions you have peace of mind knowing your credit is secure.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ol&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Check your credit quarterly.&lt;/strong&gt; Federal law guarantees you a free annual credit report from each of the three major agencies. Rotate between each of your credit reports quarterly to check for discrepancies.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Be aware of inquiries.&lt;/strong&gt; Each time a potential lender checks your credit worthiness, you’re left with an inquiry on your report which can appear for seven years! When providing your social security number on credit applications, ask the lender if they can use a “soft pull” which will not appear on your credit report.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Sign up for credit alerts.&lt;/strong&gt; You can subscribe to a credit monitoring service which will alert you of changes on your credit report and provide additional reporting not included in annual free credit reports.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ol&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Carefully monitoring your credit will help to save you time (and money!) down the road, especially if you plan on making a large purchase in the future. Also,  your credit history tends to matter more than your credit score, so ensuring that inquiries are at a minimum and that you’re overall borrowing behavior is reliable is important. Good credit on your end will also allow companies like American Capital Group to lend you more money at a lower price. See how low you can get with our *Lowest Payment, Guaranteed, or get a quick quote for your business &lt;a href="https://www.acgcapital.com/apply/quote.aspx"&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Small Businesses Report Growth In 2015</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/small-businesses-report-growth-in-2015/</link><pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2015 15:56:11 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/small-businesses-report-growth-in-2015/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;Last year accounting software company Xero, reported significant growth from small businesses in 2014. 81% of the 304 businesses they surveyed reported revenue growth, with 22% seeing their gains double. Last year’s success has led to increased optimism for this year: 90% of small businesses surveyed forecast a revenue increase.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Small  businesses don’t  just expect to grow in revenue, 51% plan to hire new staff in 2015. This trend has already been prominent, with a large surge in small business hiring this February. Small business is responsible for most of the country’s job creation. In January of this year, companies of less than 500 employees were responsible for  81% of the new private-sector jobs created.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>How To Prepare For The Busy Summer Months</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/how-to-prepare-for-the-busy-summer-months/</link><pubDate>Mon, 12 May 2014 15:53:29 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/how-to-prepare-for-the-busy-summer-months/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;With Summer right around the corner, you might see a sudden increase in your business as your customer base finally begins to thaw. Make sure that you’re prepared for the busy Summer months ahead by assessing all of the equipment in your fleet.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;If you need to replace, upgrade, or add on to existing equipment, finance your new pieces through American Capital Group. We can help you save your cash reserves by providing financing, even for used equipment!&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>Leasing and Financing – Other Side of the Face</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/leasing-and-financing-other-side-of-the-face/</link><pubDate>Mon, 18 Jun 2012 02:35:15 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/leasing-and-financing-other-side-of-the-face/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;As the younger generations want to rid themselves of the youthful time of acne and breakouts, and as the older generations want to uncover their youthful, glowing skin from within, dermatology and dermabrasion have become more and more popular and mainstream. There are many dermatologist offices that have been garnering a larger clientele, as well as many spas and salons that offer the same skin brightening and clearing opportunities at lower costs.&lt;/p&gt;</description></item><item><title>How to Start Your Own Business – For Dummies. Part 3</title><link>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/how-to-start-your-own-business-for-dummies-part-3/</link><pubDate>Fri, 11 May 2012 15:11:56 +0000</pubDate><guid>https://www.acgcapital.com/blog/other/how-to-start-your-own-business-for-dummies-part-3/</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;7.&lt;/em&gt; Get a tax identification no. – Make sure your taxes are correct from the beginning!&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;In addition to individual personal taxes, now business taxes will need to be paid.  Business taxes are dependent on the type of business your company is. The next step is to register with the IRS to receive a tax ID number for federal taxes.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;*8.*Register for state and local taxes – Get the nitty gritty done early&lt;/p&gt;</description></item></channel></rss>