How Is the Payoff Amount on a Car Lease Calculated?

Look for a “buyout amount” or “payoff amount” that will be listed on your monthly leasing statement. This buyout amount is calculated by adding up the residual value of your vehicle at the beginning of the lease, the total remaining payments, and possibly a car purchase fee (depending on the leasing company.)

How is lease payoff amount calculated?

The payoff amount is calculated by considering the projected residual value of the car plus the amount that you still owe on it, including any interest. For example, if you were to lease a 2014 Buick Enclave 2WD for five years -- 60 months -- the projected residual value would be $12,200 at the end of your lease.

Can you negotiate the payoff amount in a lease buyout?

If you've been thinking about purchasing your lease, you may be searching for the answer to the question, “Can you negotiate a lease buyout?” In short, yes. Most leasing agreements include an estimated buyout price in the contract, but in most cases, it's possible to negotiate a better deal.