Skip to main content What is an operating lease?
Definition of an operating lease
An operating lease is a lease where you rent an asset, rather than buying it.
If you’re buying the asset, or if the terms of the lease are that you’re effectively taking on the risks and rewards of owning the asset while the lease runs, the lease will be a finance lease rather than an operating lease.
Example of an operating lease
If you hire a car, that’s an operating lease, because you’re not buying the car, nor are you taking on the risks and rewards of owning it while you’re hiring it. For example, it’s the car hire company’s responsibility to insure the car and make sure it’s passed its MOT. If the car was sold it would be the hire company that would get to keep the cash.
Be careful of how much VAT you can reclaim on payments you make under an operating lease - for example, if you are leasing a car, you can only reclaim 50% of the VAT on the lease payments. To reclaim this VAT in FreeAgent, choose “Amount” on the VAT drop-down and put in half the VAT as per the payment agreement.
Disclaimer: The content included in this glossary is based on our understanding of tax law at the time of publication. It may be subject to change and may not be applicable to your circumstances, so should not be relied upon. You are responsible for complying with tax law and should seek independent advice if you require further information about the content included in this glossary. If you don't have an accountant, take a look at our directory to find a FreeAgent Practice Partner based in your local area.