Kacu
LOAN GUIDES

Equipment Financing: How It Works and How to Qualify

A practical guide to equipment financing for Canadian businesses: loans vs leases, down payments, terms, tax considerations, and approval tips.

By Kacu Editorial Team · Published · 3 min read

What equipment financing covers

Equipment financing can fund almost any business asset: delivery vehicles, construction machinery, restaurant kitchens, medical devices, manufacturing lines, and computer systems — new or used.

Equipment loan vs. equipment lease

With a loan, you own the equipment and build equity as you pay. With a lease, you make lower payments to use the equipment and may buy it, return it, or upgrade at the end. Leases suit technology that becomes outdated quickly; loans suit durable assets you will use for years.

How to qualify

  • A quote or invoice from the equipment vendor
  • Recent business bank statements showing steady revenue
  • Details on the equipment's age and expected useful life
  • A down payment for some requests, though many approvals need little or none

Tax considerations in Canada

Eligible equipment can usually be depreciated through Capital Cost Allowance, and interest on the financing is generally a deductible business expense. Always confirm treatment with your accountant.

Frequently asked questions

Can I finance used equipment?

Yes. Many lenders finance used equipment, though terms may be shorter depending on the asset's age and condition.

Funding options mentioned in this guide

Check your eligibility — no hard credit pull