What fees are included in a lease payment?

A lease payment typically includes the depreciation charge (the largest component), the finance charge (based on the money factor), and sales tax (in most states, taxed monthly on the payment rather than on the full vehicle price). It does not include insurance, maintenance, or registration renewal. Some leases also roll in an acquisition fee (typically $500-$1,000) charged by the leasing company at origination. Always ask for a full payment breakdown before signing.