As we approach the end of 2025, many print shop owners are asking the same question: Is now the right time to upgrade our equipment? If you’ve been thinking about adding a new wide-format printer or expanding your production setup, the Section 179 tax deduction is worth a closer look.

This tax incentive lets you deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment, like a UV printer, dye-sublimation printer, or eco-solvent printer, in the same year it’s put into use. That means you don’t have to spread out depreciation over several years. You can write it off right away and free up cash flow for your business.

What Is Section 179?

The Section 179 tax credit was created to help small and medium-sized businesses invest in themselves. Instead of slowly writing off equipment costs, you can deduct the entire amount upfront, up to $2.5 million in 2025. The deduction starts to phase out once your total equipment purchases exceed $4 million.

Simply put, if you buy and install qualifying printing equipment before December 31, 2025, you can deduct the full cost on your 2025 tax return. And yes, that applies whether you buy outright, finance, or lease your equipment.

Note: Always check with your accountant or tax professional to confirm eligibility and ensure your purchase qualifies under current IRS guidelines.

Why It Matters for Print Shops

For print professionals, every investment counts. Whether you run a small sign shop or a growing production facility, your equipment plays a direct role in your output, efficiency, and overall profitability.

The Section 179 deduction gives you more flexibility to reinvest in your business. By lowering your taxable income, you can recover part of your equipment cost right away, rather than waiting years to see that benefit through depreciation.

That means you can stay competitive, adopt new printing technologies sooner, and start the new year with stronger production capabilities. Strategic upgrades position your business for long-term success, giving you the flexibility to expand your service offerings in 2026 and beyond.

How to Qualify

To take advantage of the Section 179 tax deduction, your purchase must:

• Be installed and in use by December 31, 2025
• Be used for business purposes more than 50% of the time
• Include qualifying equipment (most printing equipment and software qualify)

The deduction begins to phase out once total purchases exceed $4 million, but for most print shops, that’s more than enough room to make a meaningful upgrade.

Combine Section 179 With Year-End Promotions

You can maximize your savings by pairing Section 179 with special financing offers. Many equipment dealers, including MUTOH, provide year-end financing options designed to make upgrades easier.

When you combine these programs, you can invest in advanced printing technology with minimal upfront cost while still locking in your tax deduction for the year.

Invest in the Future of Your Print Business

Upgrading your printer isn’t just about keeping up with demand; it’s about preparing your shop for what’s next. The print industry continues to evolve, and customer expectations are higher than ever.

The Section 179 deduction gives you the chance to reinvest in your business today while reducing your 2025 tax bill. It’s a smart, practical way to strengthen your operation heading into a new year of opportunities.

Don’t Miss the Deadline

To qualify for the Section 179 tax deduction, your new equipment must be purchased and in service by December 31, 2025. To learn more about the Section 179 tax deduction, visit section179.org.

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your print equipment, now’s the time. Reach out to Lou Piermarini at lou@equipmentfinancial.services to learn how you can save on our lineup of MUTOH printers this tax season.