How the Commercial Financing Process Works

CBL Financial arranges leasing and financing for commercial equipment, for businesses only, through a network of lenders.

What does the commercial financing process look like?

Start by getting an invoice or quote for the equipment you need from the vendor of your choice. New or used, from a dealer, an auction or a private seller, we can work with it. Some conditions apply to private sales. If you need help finding a vendor, ask us.
Next, submit your application to CBL Financial through our online portal at apply.cblf.ca.
Once you’re approved, our team contacts you to complete the lease documents. CBL Financial then arranges payment directly with the vendor. When the agreements are signed, the vendor delivers or transfers the equipment.
As the lessee, you make monthly payments to the assigned lender under the terms of your lease agreement while you use the equipment.

How long are the leasing periods?

Our lending partners offer leasing and financing terms from 24 to 72 months. The terms your business qualifies for depend on your credit profile, and the lender makes the final decision. We advocate for you to get the best terms available for your situation.

How does post-lease ownership work?

Most leases are structured much like financing. At the end of the term, depending on the lease you chose at the start, you can buy the equipment for a nominal amount, for its fair market value (FMV), or for a set percentage of its original cost.

What are the benefits of leasing equipment?

Cash flow management: leasing avoids a large upfront payment, which leaves more cash in the business.
Tax advantages: payments on a true lease can generally be expensed. Whether the lease also appears on your balance sheet depends on the accounting standards your business reports under, so check with your accountant.
Inflation hedge: you get the equipment at today’s price and pay for it over time with future dollars.
Preserving credit lines: a lease doesn’t draw on your bank line of credit, so that line stays available for other needs.

What are the benefits of financing equipment?

Ownership: you own the equipment from the start, and it’s an asset on your books.
Tax benefits: you can generally claim capital cost allowance on the equipment and deduct the interest. Talk to your accountant about how this applies to you.
Equity building: each payment builds equity in the equipment, which can support future financing.
No restrictions: you can use, modify or sell the equipment as you see fit, subject to your agreement with the lender.

How do I apply for an equipment lease?

Apply directly on our website at apply.cblf.ca, or contact us for a printable application or with any questions about the process. With a complete file, approvals can come the same day, and we’ll walk you through each step.

General information, not financial advice.