This course outlines the fundamentals of equipment leasing from the viewpoint of lessees. It describes the kinds of equipment that can be leased, the pros and cons of equipment leasing compared to other acquisition methods, the best sources for equipment lease financing, and the best way to determine if leasing or buying is the better financial decision for your company.

Special tax advantages available for equipment acquisition for small businesses are reviewed with examples. Also covered are the various types of equipment leases, the advantages and disadvantages of each method, and the key points to keep in mind in administering a portfolio of leased equipment.

Finally, we take a first look at the new accounting rules for lease accounting under Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 842 - Leases, and provide an overview and basic accounting entry examples for both operating and financing leases. 

The benefit to be gained by taking this course: Those responsible for making leasing acquisition decisions will learn the various leasing types and be able to determine the best option for their needs and how to find the best source for lease financing. Accountants will learn how the new accounting rules are different from previous rules and be prepared to properly record leases under the new rules that are effective beginning in 2019. Finally, additional resources for in depth understanding of the new rules are provided at the end of the course.