Title
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Finance Procedure 602.5 - Procedure for Capital Leases
Introduction
Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to set criteria that determine if a lease may meet the requirements of a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ("University") Capital Lease and if the equipment should be recorded as a capital asset.
Scope
This Procedure applies to all employees of the University.
Procedure
Equipment that is obtained through a Capital Lease or scheduled payment arrangement greater than or equal to the capitalization threshold may meet the requirements of a capital asset. To be considered a Capital Lease, the lease must meet any one of the following criteria:
- The lease transfers ownership of the property to the lessee by the end of the lease term.
- The lease contains an option to purchase the leased property at a bargain price.
- The lease term is greater than or equal to 75% of the estimated economic life of the leased property.
- The present value of rental and other minimum lease payments equals or exceeds 90% of the acquisition value of the leased property less any investment tax credit retained by the lessor.
Assets Management should obtain a list of leased equipment and review the contract terms at least annually. If the lease meets the requirements for a Capital Lease, the associated equipment should be tagged and recorded in the Capital Assets Management System prior to completion of the annual financial report.
Exceptions
None.
Definitions
Capital Lease - A Capital Lease is a lease agreement in which the lessor agrees to transfer the ownership rights to the lessee after the completion of the lease period. Capital or finance leases are long term and non cancellable in nature.
Related Requirements
External Regulations and Consequences
University Policies, Standards, and Procedures
Contact Information