The Equipment Leasing & Finance Association is a U.S. industry association. Its research and educational resources can help buyers understand equipment finance, but association membership is not a financing approval or a government endorsement.
Understand the association’s role
ELFA publishes industry research and offers education and advocacy. These activities provide context on equipment finance and the organizations involved. They do not replace the provider’s contract, credit review or obligations under applicable law.
Choose the right research resource
A monthly activity measure, an annual survey and an economic forecast have different purposes. Read the population, reporting period and methodology before comparing figures. Use the original publication rather than an unsourced statistic repeated in a sales presentation.
Use the information in provider discussions
Ask about experience with the asset category, the party making the credit decision and the process from application to acceptance. Treat a trade-association reference as background, then verify the actual entity, agreement and responsibilities involved in your project.
Before your next equipment-financing conversation
Use the following points to prepare the project. These are practical planning questions, not eligibility criteria or an offer. The appropriate financing provider determines what it can consider after reviewing the applicant and equipment.
- Check publication dates and methods
- Identify the actual financing entity
- Review the proposal independently
Sources & further reading
Published September 19, 2026. This is a project-preparation guide, not an eligibility decision, financing offer, or individualized legal, tax or accounting advice.
