1


                                                                    Exhibit 23.1


                       CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the registration statements of
MicroFinancial Incorporated on Form S-8 (File No. 333-75801 and File No.
333-77211) of our report dated February 21, 2000, on our audits of the
consolidated financial statements of MicroFinancial Incorporated as of December
31, 1998 and 1999, and for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1998, and 1999,
which report is included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.



PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP


Boston, Massachusetts
March 30, 2000