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Leasing has its own language. To successfully navigate the new car lease process, it helps to be familiar with the following business terms. The following glossary will help to understand this form of financing and make sure you can negotiate a favorable deal.

Acquisition Fee
Covers expenses such as obtaining a credit report and verifying insurance coverage.

Adjusted (or Net) Capitalized Cost
The total amount upon which the lease payments are based, including vehicle cost (minus any down payment) and any fees or other charges not paid up front.

Base Monthly Payment
This covers depreciation, any amortized amounts, and finance charges. Monthly sales/use taxes and other fees are added to determine the monthly payment.

Capitalized Cost Reduction
The same as a down payment when buying with a loan.

Closed-End Lease
This is a typical lease, where the consumer does not owe a difference if the actual value of the car at the end of the agreement is less than the residual value that was set at the beginning.

Depreciation
This is charged to cover the vehicle's projected decline in value during the lease term. Depreciation is calculated as the difference between the net capitalized cost and the vehicle’s residual value.

Disposition Fee (aka Disposal Fee)
A fee charged to defray the cost of preparing and selling the vehicle at the end of the lease.

Early Termination
Ending the lease before the scheduled termination date, whether voluntarily or involuntarily. In most cases, you must pay an early termination charge.

Excess Mileage Charge
A fee, usually 10 to 25 cents per mile, for mileage in excess of the maximum specified in the agreement.

Excessive Wear-and-Tear Fee
Charged to cover damage on a leased vehicle beyond what is considered normal. It usually covers both interior and exterior damage.

GAP (Guaranteed Auto Protection) Coverage
This makes up the difference if your car is stolen or destroyed and you owe more money on the lease than your insurance company will reimburse. One type of coverage is a waiver by the lessor of the GAP amount if the vehicle is stolen or totaled. The other is a contract by a third party to cover the GAP amount.

Gross Capitalized Cost
The vehicle price on which the lease is based. Negotiate it.

Lessee
The party to whom the vehicle is leased, i.e., you. The lessee is required to make payments and meet any other obligations in the agreement.

Lessor
A person or organization that leases, offers to lease, or arranges for the lease of a vehicle.