Can I Return My Copier at Any Time? Understanding Lease Terms

At Pahoda Copiers & Printers, we help businesses navigate copier leasing every day. One of the most common questions we hear is: “Can I return my copier at any time?”

By the End of This Article, You Will Learn:

• The difference between a copier lease and a rental.
• Why copier leases are financial agreements with set terms.
• What happens if you want to return a copier before the lease is over.
• How to choose the right lease to avoid costly surprises.

Can You Return a Leased Copier at Any Time?

The short answer is yes, but it will cost you—and no, if you mean for free.

Many people assume that leasing a copier is like renting a car or a short-term office printer rental. They believe that if they’re unhappy with the machine, they can simply say, “Come get this.” Unfortunately, that’s not how copier leases work.

Understanding Copier Leases: A Financial Agreement, Not a Rental

When you lease a copier, you’re signing a financial contract—similar to financing a car. This agreement gives you the right to use the copier for a specified time period (typically 36 to 60 months) in exchange for fixed monthly payments.

Unlike a rental, where you can return the equipment at any time, a lease agreement comes with specific obligations, including:

• Making all scheduled payments until the end of the lease term.
• Returning the copier only under the conditions outlined in the contract.
• Fulfilling buyout terms if you want to own the machine at the end of the lease.

This is why if a copier breaks or isn’t meeting expectations, you can’t simply return it without financial consequences.

What Happens If You Want to End a Lease Early?

If you decide you no longer need the copier before the lease ends, you have a few options, but none of them are free.

1. Paying Off the Remaining Lease Balance

Most copier leases do not have an early termination option. Instead, if you want out of the lease, you’re typically required to pay off the remaining balance in full.

For example, if your monthly lease payment is $250 and you have 12 months left, you may be required to pay $3,000, or more, to exit the lease—sometimes all at once. (This is called a Lease Buyout)

2. Upgrading to a New Lease (Lease Rollover)

Some leasing companies offer an upgrade option where they roll the remaining balance of your lease into a new agreement. This allows you to get a newer copier, but it may increase your overall cost. It can also lower your costs if you get a device that is much less expensive and there isn’t a lot of time left on your lease.

These details are best discussed to give exact guidance in your specific situation.

3. Finding a Third-Party to Take Over the Lease

In rare cases, a business may find another company willing to take over the lease payments. However, this depends on the leasing company’s approval, and some contracts prohibit lease transfers.

Why Do Businesses Choose Copier Leases?

Even though a lease is a long-term commitment, many businesses choose leasing over renting or buying for several key reasons:

• Lower Upfront Costs – No need to spend thousands upfront on a copier.
• Predictable Monthly Payments – Easier budgeting with fixed costs.
• Access to Newer Technology – Upgrading at the end of the lease ensures you always have modern equipment.
• Service & Maintenance Bundles – Many leases include maintenance and supply plans, reducing additional costs.
• Leasing Is Typically 50% Cheaper Per Month Than Renting – Renting a copier on a short-term basis is significantly more expensive than leasing. A lease provides long-term savings while still allowing businesses to upgrade equipment at the end of the term. Renting is typically better for short term usage.

For most businesses, leasing makes financial sense—as long as they understand the terms before signing.

How to Choose the Right Copier Lease

To avoid frustration and costly surprises, businesses should:

1. Understand the Lease Type – There are two main lease types:
   • Fair Market Value (FMV) Lease – Lower monthly payments, but you return the copier at the end (or buy it at market value).
   • $1 Buyout Lease – Higher monthly payments, but you own the copier at the end of the term.
2. Read the Fine Print – Know the return conditions, payment obligations, and what happens if the copier needs repairs.
3. Communicate Your Needs – Tell your copier provider exactly what you expect so they can match you with the best lease option.

At Pahoda Copiers & Printers, we guide businesses through the leasing process to ensure they choose the right copier and lease terms for their needs.

📞 Call us today for expert advice on copier leasing!