I have read the reasons for why not to put money down on a lease, and generally I used to agree.
BUT, that was when savings rates and/or investment rates were MUCH better.
Now, savings rates are lower than 1%, even on CD's, most are below 3%.
The lease I'm looking at is .00220 or 5.28%.
I can't make that money back on anything not risky.

So, speaking of risk, the biggest reason then not to put money down is if you totally lose your lease early on. IOW, if your lease is totalled or stolen, you will generally lose your down payment. But, that too is risk that some may be willing to make depending on where they live/drive.
I live in an area where theft is not likely to happen. If I put $2000 down, which I can easily spare, my monthly goes down $64.
Sure, it's not much. But, overall calculations show I would get more over 36 months than leaving this in the bank.

I then calculated the state tax on putting money down. Still, in the end, I'm ahead by putting money down due to total overall outlay of cash over the 36 month term.

I can afford to not put money down and pay the higher monthly. However, the advantage to lowering the monthly is; first I pay less over theh life of the loan, I have a lower monthly cost to my bills, and for me it's easier to put that "extra" into savings when I see it. Yes, some will spend it, but that's ok, you're still paying less over the lease term anyway.

So, I think that money down on an lease might have some advantages given certain market conditions. I don't think it's as clear cut as it used to be a few years ago when money factors were lower and investment areas were paying much bigger dividends.

Just some thoughts. Response is welcome.

I understand what you are saying and if it were just an interest comparison I would say you may have a point.

When you are in the business and see people lose their down payments because of a stolen vehicle or it being totaled, it's not fun.

We can only help educate customers on all aspects of a vehicle acquisition. After that, it's up to them.

Point taken. Thanks.