How to prepare for the new lease accounting standard

Description

Abstract: The goal of the Accounting Standards Update Leases (Topic 842) — often referred to as ASC 842 — is “to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements,” according to the FASB. This article offers some steps companies can take to prepare to comply with the new standard. It notes that, while the work required to comply is significant, it will lead to a better understanding of the lease terms in effect — thus helping companies leverage economies of scale and more effectively negotiate future leases.