Step-by-Step: How to Set Up a Novated Lease Agreement

Novated lease agreements are an increasingly popular choice among Australian employees looking to get behind the wheel of a new car while maximising their financial benefits. As a credit finance professional, understanding the intricacies of novated leasing and guiding your clients through the process can set you apart in the industry. This comprehensive guide will delve into novated lease agreements from an Australian perspective, offering valuable insights, step-by-step instructions, and expert advice.

Novated lease agreements are three-way agreements between employees, their employer, and a finance company. This arrangement allows employees to lease a vehicle of their choice, with the lease payments deducted directly from their pre-tax salary. It's a win-win situation, as employees enjoy the perks of driving a new car while reducing their taxable income, and employers can attract and retain talent by offering this appealing benefit.

The Basics of Novated Lease Agreements

A novated lease is a financial arrangement where an employee leases a vehicle, and the lease payments are deducted from their pre-tax salary. This process involves three main parties:

• Employee: The individual who wants to lease the vehicle and enjoys the benefits.
• Employer: The employer facilitates the novation agreement and deducts lease payments from the employee's salary.
• Finance Company: The financial institution that provides the funding for the vehicle.

How a Novated Lease Works

A novated lease typically follows these steps:

• You choose a vehicle: It can be a new or used car if it meets the eligibility criteria set by your employer and finance company.
• Finance application: You apply for finance through your chosen finance company or your employer's preferred leasing provider.
• Novation agreement: A novation deed is prepared, outlining the terms and conditions of the lease, including your obligations as an employee.
• Salary sacrifice: Your employer deducts the lease payments, along with other agreed-upon expenses like fuel, maintenance, and insurance, from your pre-tax income.
• Vehicle expenses: All expenses related to the vehicle, such as fuel, maintenance, and insurance, are typically managed through a novated lease card or app, making it easy to keep track of costs.

Tax Implications

One of the most significant advantages of a novated lease is the tax savings it offers. In Australia, here's how the tax implications work:

• Reduced taxable income: Your lease payments and other vehicle-related expenses are deducted from your pre-tax salary. This lowers your taxable income, resulting in reduced income tax.
• GST benefits: If your employer is GST registered, they can claim a GST credit on the car's purchase price and running costs, which can further reduce the overall cost of the lease.

Setting up a novated lease is a beneficial financial choice, and I'm here to guide you through the essential steps to make this process smooth and efficient. Let's get started:

Step 1: Consultation and Assessment

Understanding Your Needs

Our journey begins with understanding your financial situation and goals. Here are some questions to consider:

• Monthly Budget: What is your budget for monthly lease payments?
• Vehicle Preference: Do you have a specific make or model of the vehicle in mind?
• Additional Expenses: Are you interested in bundling additional expenses like fuel and insurance into the lease?
• Long-term Goals: What are your long-term objectives with this novated lease?

Assessing Eligibility and Affordability

To proceed, we need to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for a novated lease, which typically include:

• Employment: Novated leases are generally available to employees.
• Employer Participation: We must verify that your employer is willing to participate in the novation agreement.
• Affordability: We'll assess your affordability, considering your income and existing financial commitments.

Step 2: Vehicle Selection

Choosing the Right Car

Your choice of vehicle is crucial. Let's identify a vehicle that aligns with your needs and budget. Here are some factors to consider:

• Fuel Efficiency: Think about the car's fuel efficiency and running costs.
• Depreciation: Consider the vehicle's depreciation rate.
• Maintenance: Assess the maintenance requirements.
• Resale Value: Think about the vehicle's resale value.

Considering the Budget

The chosen vehicle must fit within your budget and affordability. We'll help you strike the right balance between your desires and financial capacity.

Step 3: Novation Agreement

Preparing the Novation Deed

The novation deed is a crucial legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of the novated lease. It includes details such as:

• Lease Term: The duration of the lease and repayment schedule.
• Responsibilities: Clarification of responsibilities for the employee, employer, and finance company.
• Expenses: Details on how vehicle-related expenses will be handled.

Reviewing Legal Obligations

Understanding the legal obligations is vital for a successful novated lease:

• Adherence: You must adhere to the terms of the novation deed.
• Responsibility: Responsible vehicle usage and maintenance are key.
• Expense Claims: Timely submission of expense claims is crucial.

Step 4: Finance Application

Credit Check and Financial Assessment

Finance application, which includes a credit check. Understanding how lenders assess your financial stability and repayment capacity is crucial.

Loan Approval Process

Outlining what you can expect in terms of timelines and documentation requirements. Accuracy and completeness of information are essential to expedite approval.

Step 5: Insurance and Registration

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

Ensuring you have comprehensive insurance coverage is vital. Seek help in obtaining the right coverage and how it safeguards you in case of accidents or unforeseen events.

Vehicle Registration

Seek guidance through the vehicle registration process, whether in your name or the finance company's, depending on the novation deed terms.

Setting up a novated lease involves gathering specific documents to ensure a seamless process. As a credit finance professional, it's your responsibility to help your clients compile these essential documents.

Employee Documents

To initiate the novated lease process, the following documents are typically required:

• Personal Identification: Proof of identity, such as a passport or driver's license.
• Proof of Income: Recent pay stubs or employment contracts demonstrating income.
• Employment Verification: A letter from the employer confirming the client's employment status and willingness to participate in the novation agreement.

Vehicle Documents

When it comes to the chosen vehicle, certain documents are necessary:

• Purchase Invoice: A copy of the vehicle purchase invoice.
• Vehicle Registration: Documentation proving that the vehicle is registered.
• Insurance Documents: Proof of comprehensive insurance coverage for the vehicle.

Novation Agreement

The novation agreement is a critical document, and your clients must have a fully executed and signed novation deed.

Financial Documents

To secure finance for the novated lease, financial documents are vital:

• Loan Application: Complete and accurate finance application forms.
• Credit Report: A recent credit report showcasing the client's financial history.
• Proof of Residence: Evidence of the client's address, typically in utility bills or official correspondence.

Ensuring these documents are complete and in order will expedite the process and increase the likelihood of a successful novated lease setup.

The timeline for organising a novated lease can vary depending on several factors. Both you and your client must have a realistic expectations of the process.

Typical Timeline

Here's an overview of the typical steps involved in setting up a novated lease and the associated timeframes:

Initial Consultation

• Duration: 1-2 hours
• This phase involves the initial client meeting, where you assess eligibility and discuss the client's requirements and goals.

Vehicle Selection

• Duration: Variable
• Choosing the right vehicle can take some time, depending on the client's preferences and the availability of suitable options.

Document Collection and Review

• Duration: 1-2 weeks
• Gathering and verifying all necessary documents, including finance application materials and the novation agreement.

Finance Application and Approval

• Duration: 2-4 weeks
• The approval process depends on the lender's requirements and the completeness of the application.

Insurance and Registration

• Duration: 1-2 weeks
• Securing comprehensive insurance coverage and registering the vehicle following the novation agreement.

One common question that often arises is whether individuals can set up their own novated lease agreements without the assistance of a credit finance professional. Let's explore this option in detail.

The DIY Novated Lease Dilemma

While it's technically possible for an employee to attempt to set up a novated lease independently, it's essential to understand the complexities and potential pitfalls involved.

Why Seek Professional Guidance?

Here are some compelling reasons why individuals should strongly consider enlisting the help of a credit finance professional when setting up a novated lease:

Expertise and Knowledge

Credit finance professionals have in-depth knowledge of the novated leasing process. They understand the intricacies of finance applications, the legal aspects of novation agreements, and the specific requirements of different lenders. Their expertise can help clients navigate the process more efficiently and effectively.

Access to Lenders

Finance professionals often have relationships with various lenders and finance companies. This can translate into access to a broader range of financing options, potentially resulting in better terms and rates for the client.

Legal Compliance

Novated leasing involves legal agreements and tax implications. Professionals are well-versed in the legal requirements and can ensure that all aspects of the lease comply with Australian laws and regulations.

Choosing the Right Professional

If you decide to seek professional assistance, it's essential to choose the right credit finance professional:

Qualifications and Experience

Look for professionals who are qualified and experienced in novated leasing. Verify their credentials and inquire about their track record in helping clients secure favorable novated leases.

Reputation and Reviews

Client feedback and reviews can provide valuable insights into the professionalism and effectiveness of a finance professional. Research and seek recommendations.

Fees and Costs

Discuss the fees and costs associated with your services upfront.

Novated leases offer a powerful combination of tax savings, vehicle choice, and financial convenience. However, the process can be complex, with legal and financial intricacies. By seeking professional guidance, from the initial consultation to the successful setup of your novated lease, you have the power to make informed decisions.

If you're in the market for a financed car purchase, look no further than Driva. We provide car loans through an extensive network of 30+ lenders, allowing you to compare options and discover the perfect fit for your needs. At Driva, transparency is our priority, ensuring you can choose us with peace of mind.