Best Equipment Financing in February 2025

Equipment loans and leases can help you get essential equipment and machinery for your business. Financing options may be available for startups and businesses with bad credit.

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By Katie Ziraldo and Tara Mastroeni | Edited by Dawn Daniels | January 31, 2025

National Funding: Best for borrowers who want to lease equipment

Up to $150,000

Not disclosed

24 to 60 months

Pros
  • Low minimum credit score requirement
  • Offers equipment leasing with no down payment or collateral requirements
Cons

Why we picked it

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Not all equipment financing lenders offer equipment leasing, which could make National Funding a good fit for businesses that don’t want to buy their equipment or machinery outright. And if you aren’t sure whether leasing is right for your business, National Funding will work with you to explain your options.

If you choose to go this route, you could secure a competitive lease contract with its Guaranteed Lowest Payment program, which applies to leases over $10,000.

Note, though, that equipment financing is only available up to $150,000, so businesses seeking more expensive equipment may need to look elsewhere.

How to qualify

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In order to qualify, you’ll need to meet National Funding’s criteria of:

  • Minimum credit score: 600
  • Minimum time in business: 6 months
  • Minimum annual revenue: $250,000

Commercial Fleet Financing: Best for buying commercial vehicles

$100,000 to $1,000,000

Not disclosed

36 to 108 months

Pros
  • Ideal for business owners with commercial transportation needs
  • Quick one-page application process
Cons
  • May require a down payment for borrowers with poor credit
  • Lack of transparency around average interest rates

Why we picked it

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Commercial Fleet Financing (CFF) specializes in commercial transportation equipment, like trucks and trailers. Since its opening in 1995, CFF has funded over $1 billion to business owners nationwide.

As a specialized lender, CFF offers specialized industry expertise in areas like tow trucks, EMS vehicles and commercial trucks.

However, it’s important to note that while Commercial Fleet Financing doesn’t disclose interest rates in advance, specialized equipment companies may have higher rates than traditional lenders.

How to qualify

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In order to qualify, you’ll need to meet Commercial Fleet Financing’s criteria of:

  • Minimum credit score: 640 or higher is preferred, though you may be able to get a loan with a credit score under 640 if you provide additional information
  • Minimum time in business: Not disclosed
  • Minimum annual revenue: Not disclosed

Taycor Financial: Best for startup owners

$500 to $5,000,000

7.90%

12 to 84 months

Pros
  • Time in business requirement allows for startups
  • Low minimum credit score requirement
Cons
  • Interest rates may be in the double digits
  • A longer loan term could mean paying more interest over time

Why we picked it

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With no minimum time in business or annual revenue requirements, Taycor Financial is a great option for a startup business loan. You can borrow up to $5,000,000 with commercial equipment financing or explore other options, such as a business line of credit or working capital loan.

Taycor Financial also has an equipment leasing program that offers up to $2,000,000 — it doesn’t require a down payment, though first and last payments are due in advance.

However, as a specialized lender, Taycor Financial’s interest rates can be steep, especially for low-credit borrowers.

How to qualify

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In order to qualify, you’ll need to meet Taycor Financial’s criteria of:

  • Minimum credit score: 550
  • Minimum time in business: None
  • Minimum annual revenue: None

First Citizens Bank Equipment Finance: Best for business owners who need 100% financing

Up to $500,000

Not disclosed

12 to 72+ months

Pros
  • Can receive funds as fast as one day
  • 100% financing available with no down payment required
Cons
  • Interest rates aren’t disclosed
  • Lack of transparency about minimum credit score, time in business and annual revenue requirements

Why we picked it

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First Citizens Bank offers 100% financing on business equipment. This means no down payment is required, minimizing the upfront costs of the loan.

The initial online application takes just a few minutes, with funds hitting your bank account as quickly as one business day after approval. These funds can be used for new or used equipment across multiple industries, including construction, manufacturing and agribusiness.

In addition to equipment financing, First Citizens offers short-term business loans, long-term business loans, business credit cards, lines of credit and vendor financing.

How to qualify

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First Citizens Bank isn’t very transparent when it comes to disclosing its qualifying requirements. The company chooses not to publish its minimum credit score, annual revenue or time in business criteria.

iBusiness Funding: Best for business owners who want a dedicated account representative

$25,000 to $500,000

7.49%

6 to 84 months

Pros
  • Typically no effect on your personal credit score to apply
  • Low minimum annual revenue requirement ($50,000)
Cons
  • May require collateral
  • Doesn’t offer specific equipment loans

Why we picked it

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With iBusiness Funding, a dedicated account manager will guide you through the entire loan process from start to finish, ensuring you’re on the right track.

Although the lender doesn’t offer specific equipment loans, you can borrow up to $500,000 with a term loan and use the funds for almost any business-related expense — including equipment repairs and purchases. However, you may need to provide collateral to secure a loan.

How to qualify

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In order to qualify, you’ll need to meet iBusiness Funding’s criteria of:

  • Minimum credit score: 640
  • Minimum time in business: 2 years
  • Minimum annual revenue: $50,000

Bank of America: Best for existing Bank of America account holders

Starting at $25,000

7.00%

Up to 60 months

Pros
  • Offers a business rewards program with interest rate discounts
  • Ideal for in-person support and guidance
Cons
  • Requires $250,000 in annual revenue
  • Lack of transparency about minimum credit score requirements

Why we picked it

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Existing account holders can take advantage of rate perks with Bank of America’s Preferred Rewards for Business program, making it a good option for business owners who want to handle all of their finances in one place. In addition to equipment loans, Bank of America also offers business bank accounts, credit cards and merchant services.

And with over 3,000 branches nationwide, this may also be an ideal choice if you prefer in-person support.

However, it’s worth noting that the bank’s minimum annual revenue requirements are quite high, so these offerings may be best suited for well-established businesses.

How to qualify

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In order to qualify, you’ll need to meet Bank of America’s criteria of:

  • Minimum credit score: Not disclosed
  • Minimum time in business: 2 years
  • Minimum annual revenue: $250,000

Fora Financial: Best for business owners with bad credit

$5,000 to $1,500,000

1.13 factor rate

4 to 18 months

Pros
  • Low minimum credit score requirement
  • Offers prepayment discounts
Cons
  • Shortest repayment period on this list
  • Charges a 3.00% origination fee

Why we picked it

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Fora Financial is one of our top picks for a bad credit business loan, as its credit score requirement goes as low as 570. It offers small business loans between $5,000 and $1,500,000 for any business expense — including equipment repairs, upgrades or leases. However, you need a minimum of $20,000 monthly revenue to qualify.

And while other lenders may charge prepayment penalties for business loans, Fora Financial offers a prepayment discount. However, repaying your loan early may prove difficult (or even impossible) for some borrowers, as Fora Financial offers the shortest loan terms on this list.

How to qualify

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In order to qualify, you’ll need to meet Fora Financial’s criteria of:

  • Minimum credit score: 570
  • Minimum time in business: 6 months
  • Minimum annual revenue: $240,000

SBA 7(a) loan: Best for business owners borrowing a large amount

Up to $5,000,000

10.50 to 14.00 14% for loans $50,000 or less
13.5% for loans $50,001 to $250,000
12% for loans $250,001 to $350,000
10.5% for loans above $350,000
Some borrowers may qualify for lower rates. Based on the current prime rate of 7.50% + a rate maximum set by the SBA.

12.50 to 15.50 15.5% for loans $25,000 or less
14.5% for loans $25,001 to $50,000
13.5% for loans $50,001 to $250,000
12.5% for loans above $250,000
Some borrowers may qualify for lower rates. Based on the current prime rate of 7.50% + a rate maximum set by the SBA.

120 to 300 months

Pros
  • Capped interest rates
  • Long repayment terms
Cons
  • Collateral and/or a personal guarantee may be required
  • Potentially longer processing time depending on the lender

Why we picked it

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If you need to purchase or upgrade equipment to keep your business running, an SBA 7(a) loan provides the most significant amount — up to $5,000,000. And if you need a heavy equipment loan, an SBA 504/CDC loan is another option. You can use the funds for general equipment and inventory, like computers, restaurant appliances, office furniture, technology systems, medical equipment and more.

The Small Business Administration guarantees a portion of every SBA loan, allowing lenders to offer more affordable rates to small business owners. However, SBA loans typically take longer to process, so this may not be the best option for borrowers in need of fast funds.

How to qualify

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Qualifying criteria for SBA loans can vary between lenders. However, to improve your chances of loan approval, the SBA typically recommends the following:

  • Minimum credit score: 680
  • Minimum time in business: 2 years

OnDeck: Best for business owners who need money quickly

$5,000 to $250,000

31.30% This rate reflects the estimated starting APR offered to at least 5% of OnDeck customers. It doesn’t reflect the minimum APR offered by the company.

Up to 24 months

Pros
  • Same-day funding available
  • Shorter time in business requirement
Cons
  • Doesn’t disclose minimum interest rate
  • Lower borrowing limit than other lenders on this list

Why we picked it

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If you need fast funds, OnDeck may be a good option. The company offers short-term business loans up to $250,000 with the possibility of receiving same-day funding for loans up to $100,000. Plus, OnDeck is transparent about its eligibility requirements, so it’s easy to know if you’ll qualify.

That said, the lender’s interest rates are high compared to some competitors. Plus, the maximum borrowing limit is lower than other lenders on this list, so OnDeck may only be suitable for select businesses.

How to qualify

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In order to qualify, you’ll need to meet OnDeck’s criteria of:

  • Minimum credit score: 625
  • Minimum time in business: 1 year
  • Minimum annual revenue: $100,000

U.S. Bank: Best for business owners who need flexible payment options

Up to $2,500,000

Not disclosed

Starting at 24 months

Pros
  • Flexible payment options (monthly, quarterly or annually)
  • Finance up to 125% of equipment cost
Cons
  • Lack of transparency around loan terms
  • Equipment is used as collateral for the loan

Why we picked it

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U.S. Bank may not be the most transparent lender when it comes to disclosing its loan terms, but for those who can qualify, it offers some unique perks that make it worth considering. For example, borrowers have the option to choose between monthly, quarterly and annual payments. Plus, the lender finances up to 125% of your equipment costs, providing extra cash to cover added fees like taxes or installation.

Still, you should be aware that your equipment will be used as collateral for the loan. This means that if you’re unable to keep up with your payments, the lender has the right to repossess any equipment that you purchased with the loan funds.

How to qualify

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U.S. Bank chooses not to disclose its annual revenue, credit score or time in business requirements.

What is equipment financing?

Equipment financing is a business term loan that enables companies to purchase equipment needed to operate their businesses — such as computers, vehicles or large machinery.

An equipment loan is a type of asset-based financing, meaning the equipment generally acts as collateral in a secured business loan.

Types of equipment financing

There are a few different types of equipment financing to choose from.

True equipment financing allows you to finance the cost of buying the equipment outright, while equipment leasing allows you to contract to use the equipment for a set period of time. Newer businesses or those with short-term needs may also want to consider renting equipment, which is like a short-term version of leasing, with maintenance costs included in your contract.

Here’s a close look at the similarities and differences between the three:

Equipment financingEquipment leasingRenting equipment
DefinitionThe borrower finances the cost of buying the equipment outrightThe lessee signs a contract that gives them the right to use the equipment for a specified period of time.The renter signs a contract that grants them the right to use the equipment for a period of time, which is usually shorter than with a lease
Payment termsEquipment loans cover the costs of equipment in exchange for periodic repayments over a specified termThe borrower makes periodic payments to rent equipment over a specified termThe borrower makes regular payments over a specified term that is usually shorter than with a lease
OwnershipBorrower owns the equipmentLender owns the equipment but may give the lessee the option to buy it at the end of the lease termLender owns the equipment, and borrower must return it at the end of the rental term
Down paymentTypically requiredNot typically requiredNot required
MaintenanceThe borrower is responsible for any maintenance on the equipmentThe lessee is responsible for any maintenance on the equipmentThe cost of maintenance is typically included in the rental contract
CostsCosts less in the long termCosts more in the long termHighest cost of all in the long term
DepreciationTypically tax deductibleMay be tax deductible depending on the lease typeTypically tax deductible

Capital lease vs. operating lease

  • A capital lease allows you to rent equipment with the option to buy at the end of the lease term. On the downside, you can’t cancel a capital lease.
  • An operating lease is similar to a conventional rental agreement: You make regular payments, but will never own the equipment. However, as the lessee, you can usually cancel the lease with adequate prior notice.

How to get equipment financing

To qualify for equipment financing, lenders will typically look at the following:

  • Personal credit score: Lenders will examine your personal credit score to determine eligibility. Many online lenders, including Commercial Fleet Financing, have minimum credit score requirements in the 600s.
  • Time in business: Some lenders have a minimum time in business requirement of two years, but certain online lenders only require six months or less in operation. For example, Taycor Financial has no minimum time in business requirements.
  • Annual revenue: Traditional banks may require minimum annual revenues, which vary greatly. For example, iBusiness Funding requires $50,000, whereas Bank of America requires $250,000.
 Commonly required equipment financing documents

When applying for equipment financing, the lender may require the following:

  • Equipment quote
  • Recent bank statements
  • Business plan
  • Personal and business tax returns
  • Personal credit score
  • Driver’s license

How to compare equipment financing

It’s important to shop around for equipment financing in order to ensure that you’re securing the best rate and terms available to you. Here’s a look at five factors to consider while weighing your options.

Interest rate: The interest rate you’re given can greatly impact your cost of borrowing and, as a rule of thumb, picking the loan with the lowest interest rate will help you save money. Business loan interest rates can vary greatly between lenders, so be sure to gather loan offers from multiple lenders before making your decision.

Repayment term: Your equipment financing loan offers may come with different repayment terms. In general, longer repayment terms come with lower monthly payment amounts; meanwhile, shorter repayment terms cost more each month, but offer lower interest charges over the life of the loan.

Funding time: Funding times can also vary between lenders. Some lenders offer same-day funding, while others can take a few days or weeks to complete a funding request. Do your best to choose a lender whose funding schedule suits your needs.

Additional fees: Some lenders charge extra fees, like origination fees or prepayment penalties. Be sure to read the fine print of your loan agreement, so you’ll be prepared for any fees that come your way.

Loan purpose: Some equipment financing loans come with restrictions on what you can buy with the funds. Check to ensure that the loan you choose is a match for your business type and intended purchase. If not, don’t be afraid to explore other options.

What is 100% financing?

If a lender offers 100% financing, it means that they’ll lend you the amount it costs to purchase the equipment with no down payment, or 100% of the cost.

Some equipment loans require a down payment, decreasing the total amount you can receive for your equipment purchase. For example, if a lender requires a 20% down payment, that means they can only offer financing for up to 80% of your equipment costs.

Some lenders may go beyond 100%, offering additional funds to cover “soft costs,” which are equipment-related expenses like installation and shipping. For example, if a lender offers 125% financing on a $10,000 piece of equipment, that means you can borrow up to $2,500 for those soft costs.

Pros and cons of equipment financing

ProsCons

 Fast funding: Online lenders offer fast equipment loans (typically within two business days).

 Interest rate: Since equipment loans are secured, you’ll benefit from comparatively lower business loan interest rates.

 Fixed payments: You can spread your cost over time with fixed payments.

 Down payments: Equipment loans may require large down payments (typically 20%).

 Extends equipment lifetime: Depending on the loan term, your equipment could become outdated or obsolete while you’re still making loan payments.

 Lien or personal guarantee: With equipment loans, lenders typically require a lien and personal guarantee in addition to collateral.

How we chose the best equipment financing

We reviewed more than 25 lenders to determine the overall best 10 equipment financing loans. To make our list, lenders must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum time in business requirement of two years or less
  • Rates and terms: We prioritize lenders with more competitive fixed rates, fewer fees and greater options for repayment terms, loan amounts and APR discounts.
  • Repayment experience: For starters, we consider each lender’s reputation and business practices. We also favor lenders that report to all major credit bureaus, offer reliable customer service and provide any unique perks to customers, like interest rate discounts or flexible repayment schedules.

Best equipment financing summary

Frequently asked questions

An equipment loan is designed to help you purchase or repair machinery and equipment for your business. In addition, you can use other types of small business loans to finance equipment.
 
Equipment loans generally require regular payments with accruing interest. Payment plans vary by lender and loan type, but can include daily, weekly, monthly, seasonal or deferred options.

No, leasing means you’re renting the equipment. With equipment financing, you’re borrowing money to buy the equipment outright instead.

Yes, some equipment lenders only require six months in business to qualify for equipment financing — and some don’t have any time-in-business requirements. This allows startups to finance any necessary equipment within their first year of business.