Let’s be honest — Q4 sneaks up on all of us. One minute, you're wrapping up your last fall events, and the next, you’re staring down tax season, wondering how to best position your business for next year.
If you’re in the event rental game like many of our Tent and Table customers, now is the time to put Section 179 to work for you.
Here’s how strategic end-of-year planning — including smart use of tax deductions like Section 179 — can make a major impact on your cash flow, your inventory, and your competitive edge heading into next season.
What Is Section 179 and Why Should You Care?
Section 179 of the IRS tax code allows small businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment and software bought or financed during the tax year. That means if you buy a $20,000 tent today, you can deduct the entire $20,000 from your taxable income this year, instead of depreciating it over several years.
In simple terms: buy it now, write it off now.
For event rental pros, that means tents, inflatables, tables, chairs, lighting, and more could potentially qualify. Always check with your CPA to make sure your purchases meet IRS guidelines, but in most cases, equipment used for business qualifies.
Your End-of-Year Playbook: Turn Tax Strategy into Business Strategy
Smart business owners aren’t just thinking about taxes in April — they’re using them as a planning tool right now. Here’s how you can align your equipment purchases and inventory decisions with a smart Section 179 strategy.
1. Buy New Equipment Now and Take Immediate Depreciation
If you're already planning to expand your inventory, consider doing it before December 31st. Purchasing qualifying equipment now means you can deduct the full cost this tax year under Section 179, potentially lowering your taxable income significantly.
Whether it’s a high-demand wedding tent, new folding chairs, or a commercial-grade blower, now is the time to upgrade. Not only will this help your business come spring, but it could also reduce the size of your tax bill.
2. Update Your Website and Train Your Team
Once the new gear arrives, don’t let it collect dust in storage. Get it photographed and posted to your website. Make sure your staff is trained on setup, teardown, and handling procedures. This way, your team is fully prepared and your inventory is available to book before peak season.
3. Start Marketing and Taking Deposits for Next Season
Use your new inventory as an opportunity to reach out to repeat clients and new prospects. Share updates on social media, send a few targeted emails, and start collecting deposits for spring and summer events. The earlier you start filling up your calendar, the healthier your off-season cash flow will be.
4. Clean Up and Sell Older Inventory — Strategically
End-of-year is a great time to evaluate what you’re no longer using. Clean up and photograph older tents, chairs, or equipment. You can either start listing them for sale now to generate off-season cash flow or hold onto them and sell closer to peak season when demand (and resale value) tends to be higher.
Used event equipment is in demand, especially from newer operators looking to expand affordably.
Why This Matters for Your Rental Business
Section 179 isn’t just a tax code — it’s a tool for growth. For operators like you, it can help improve cash flow, reduce taxable income, and support business investments you’re already planning to make. It's about putting your money to work more effectively — not just for this season, but for the long haul.
The best event rental pros aren’t reacting to tax bills in April. They’re making moves in October, November, and December that set them up for success in the next season and beyond.
A Simple Example
Say you buy $50,000 worth of tents, chairs, and accessories this year. If your business is in the 24% tax bracket, Section 179 could potentially save you $12,000 in taxes. That’s capital you can reinvest into staffing, maintenance, marketing — or just keeping more money in your pocket.
Don’t Let the Clock Run Out
To take advantage of Section 179, qualifying equipment must be purchased and put into service by December 31st. That deadline isn’t flexible.
Talk to your accountant. Look at your current and future equipment needs. And if you're planning to grow, now is the time to act.
At Tent and Table, we’re here to help you identify smart inventory investments that support your business strategy and budget. If you're not sure what to buy, reach out — we’ve helped thousands of event professionals make informed choices that drive results.
Disclaimer
Tent and Table is not a licensed tax consultant, CPA, or financial advisor. The information in this blog is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered financial or tax advice. Please consult with your accountant or tax professional to determine how Section 179 and any other tax strategies apply to your specific business situation.