The problem considered in this thesis is whether or not long term leases should be capitalized for balance sheet disclosure at the discounted value of the future rental payments under the lease. A deductive approach was employed wherein the concepts and definitions of the capitalization method were discussed. It was gen erally concluded that all long-term, noncancellable leases should be shown in this manner, since the lessee receives the potential services embodied in the asset while incurring a definite obligation to pay for this right, in the same manner as any other financing arrangement. The empirical evidence, as provided by two mail questionnaires, did not support the complete capitalization of all long-term, noncan cellable leases, but did indicate that capitalization would be an acceptable method of disclosing those leases which were in substance purchases of the property. As well, a more complete and consistent application of the disclosure criteria for long-term lease footnotes was requested by the respondents. The principal recommendation of the study is that those leases which provide, in effect, for the installment purchase of the property should be capitalized at present value of the future lease payments, and disclosed among the fixed assets of the entity. The obligation under the lease should also be disclosed as a long-term liability, together with proper details explaining the nature of the arrangement.

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