State Law Guide - Updated January 2026

New York Lease Return Dispute Rights

Under Motor Vehicle Retail Leasing Act (MVRLA), New York gives you the right to cancel and receive refunds on F&I products.

Quick Answer

In New York, you can cancel dealer add-on products at any time. You can sue in Small Claims Court for up to $10,000.

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Key New York Provisions

Provision	Requirement	Your Right
Arbitration Program	Available for $75	Request binding arbitration through NY AG
Written Standards	Must be disclosed	Lessor must provide written wear standards at lease start
Credit Card Test	Industry standard	Damage under credit card size (~2") is normal wear
Independent Appraisal	Your right	Can request independent third-party appraisal
Federal Regulation M	Applies	Standards must be "reasonable" under federal law

Arbitration Program

Available for $75

Request binding arbitration through NY AG

Written Standards

Must be disclosed

Lessor must provide written wear standards at lease start

Credit Card Test

Industry standard

Damage under credit card size (~2") is normal wear

Independent Appraisal

Your right

Can request independent third-party appraisal

Federal Regulation M

Applies

Standards must be "reasonable" under federal law

What New York Law Requires

Your Cancellation Rights

Under Motor Vehicle Retail Leasing Act (MVRLA), New York consumers have the right to cancel F&I products purchased from dealers.After this period, you're still entitled to a pro-rata refund based on unused time or mileage.

Get a Demand Letter That Cites New York Law

Our tool generates a formal lease return dispute letter citing Motor Vehicle Retail Leasing Act (MVRLA) and state-specific provisions for maximum leverage.

Dispute Letter

Cites Regulation M & OEM guides

Credit Card Test Analysis

Industry-standard defense

Documented Savings

Average $1,200 disputed

$29 - Avg New York refund: $1,800 - Potential 62x return

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NY AG arbitration program for leases?

New York offers a unique $75 arbitration program through the Attorney General's office for lease-end disputes. This is binding arbitration that can resolve excess wear charge disputes without going to court.

What is the Credit Card Test for lease returns?

The Credit Card Test is an industry standard: if a scratch, dent, or damage can be covered by a standard credit card (approximately 2 inches), it's generally considered normal wear and tear, not chargeable damage.

Can I dispute lease-end charges in New York?

Yes. Under MVRLA and federal Regulation M, you have the right to dispute charges that exceed reasonable wear standards. New York is particularly consumer-friendly with its AG arbitration program.

Do I have to pay lease-end charges before disputing?

You should dispute the charges in writing before the payment deadline. Under federal law, you have the right to request an independent appraisal. Do not simply pay if you believe the charges are unfair.

New York Regulatory Contacts

If you need to file a complaint or seek assistance, contact these official agencies:

Contact information is provided for reference. Verify current details on official agency websites.

Compare Other States

See how New York's laws compare to other states:

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Based on Motor Vehicle Retail Leasing Act (MVRLA)