Depreciate

Definition

Accounting:

In accounting, to “depreciate” means to systematically write off the recorded cost of a tangible fixed asset over a set period of time. This process is known as “depreciation” and is a method used to allocate the cost of an asset over its useful life.

Economics:

In economic terms, “depreciate” refers to a decline in the market value of an asset over time. This decrease can be due to factors such as wear and tear, obsolescence, or market conditions.

Examples

Accounting Depreciation:
- A company purchases a delivery truck for $100,000. If the truck has a useful life of 10 years, the company may use a straight-line depreciation method to write off $10,000 each year as an expense on its income statement.
Economic Depreciation:
- A piece of machinery initially valued at $50,000 might be worth only $30,000 after five years due to wear and tear and advancements in technology that make it less valuable in the market.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What are the common methods of depreciation in accounting?

A: The most common methods of depreciation are Straight-Line, Declining Balance, Units of Production, and Sum-of-the-Years-Digits. Each method has different calculations to determine the depreciation expense for each period.

Q2: Can land be depreciated?

A: No, land cannot be depreciated because it typically does not have a finite useful life and does not wear out or become obsolete over time.

Q3: What is accelerated depreciation?

A: Accelerated depreciation is a method that depreciates an asset faster in the earlier years of its useful life, resulting in higher depreciation expenses initially and lower expenses in later years.

Q4: How does depreciation affect financial statements?

A: Depreciation reduces the book value of assets on the balance sheet and is recorded as an expense on the income statement, thereby reducing net income.

Q5: What is residual value in depreciation?

A: Residual value, or salvage value, is the expected value of an asset at the end of its useful life. It is subtracted from the asset’s purchase cost to determine the total amount to be depreciated.

Amortization: The process of gradually writing off the cost of an intangible asset over its useful life.
Asset: A resource owned by an individual or entity that has economic value.
Straight-Line Depreciation: A method where an equal amount of depreciation expense is allocated each year over the useful life of the asset.
Declining Balance Method: A method that applies a constant depreciation rate to the declining book value of the asset each year.
Sum-of-the-Years-Digits (SYD): A depreciation method that results in more depreciation expense in the earlier years of an asset’s life and less in the later years.

Online References

Suggested Books for Further Studies

“Financial Accounting For Dummies” by Maire Loughran
“Intermediate Accounting” by Donald E. Kieso, Jerry J. Weygandt, and Terry D. Warfield
“Financial & Managerial Accounting” by Carl S. Warren, James M. Reeve, and Jonathan Duchac

Fundamentals of Depreciation: Accounting Basics Quiz

### Does depreciation apply to both the building and the land it is on? - [ ] Yes, both the building and the land can be depreciated. - [x] No, only the building can be depreciated. - [ ] Depreciation does not apply to real estate at all. - [ ] Both the building and land depreciate equally. > **Explanation:** Depreciation only applies to the building itself and not the land it is located on. Land typically does not lose value over time, whereas buildings do due to wear and tear. ### Over how many years must residential property be depreciated according to tax laws? - [x] 27.5 years - [ ] 15 years - [ ] 30 years - [ ] 39 years > **Explanation:** According to tax laws, residential properties must be depreciated over a 27.5 year term. This allows for an annual deduction related to the depreciation. ### Over how many years must commercial property be depreciated according to tax laws? - [ ] 27.5 years - [ ] 30 years - [x] 39 years - [ ] 45 years > **Explanation:** According to tax laws, commercial properties must be depreciated over a 39 year term. This extended period helps distribute the depreciation deduction over a longer time frame. ### Which type of property allows for depreciation as an income tax deduction? - [ ] Personal-use property - [ ] Land - [x] Income-producing property - [ ] All types of property > **Explanation:** Depreciation can be used as an income tax deduction for businesses for properties that are used for income-producing activities. Properties used for personal purposes do not qualify for depreciation deductions. ### What must a property have for it to qualify for depreciation? - [x] A useful life of at least one year - [ ] A mortgage attached to it - [ ] An appraisal conducted every three years - [ ] Equal use between personal and business > **Explanation:** To qualify for depreciation, the property must have a continued useful life of at least one year and must be used for an income-producing activity. ### Who provides the allowance for the normal wear and tear of a piece of property? - [ ] Real estate agents - [ ] Local municipalities - [ ] Property management companies - [x] The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) > **Explanation:** The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provides an allowance for the normal wear and tear of a piece of property, which can be deducted from taxable income through depreciation. ### When filing an annual tax report, who can claim depreciation? - [ ] Any resident of the United States - [ ] Any homeowner regardless of purpose - [x] Individuals or businesses that own income-producing property - [ ] Only those with newly built properties > **Explanation:** Only individuals or businesses that own income-producing property and meet other specified criteria can claim depreciation when filing an annual tax report with the IRS. ### Depreciation is used to offset which type of expense for businesses? - [x] Income tax liability - [ ] Mortgage interest - [ ] Utility expenses - [ ] Insurance premiums > **Explanation:** Depreciation can be used as an income tax deduction, effectively reducing the income tax liability of a business. ### Why is depreciation especially important for businesses? - [ ] It is a source of immediate revenue. - [ ] It increases the value of properties. - [x] It allows for a significant tax deduction over time. - [ ] It avoids the need for any property-related expenses. > **Explanation:** Depreciation is important for businesses as it allows for a significant tax deduction over time. This tax benefit can improve the financial condition of the business by reducing tax liabilities. ### What aspect of a property predominantly affects its depreciation schedule? - [x] Whether it is residential or commercial - [ ] The construction material used - [ ] The color of the building - [ ] The landscape quality > **Explanation:** The depreciation schedule is predominantly affected by whether the property is residential or commercial, with residential properties having a 27.5-year term and commercial properties having a 39-year term.

Thank you for embarking on this journey through our comprehensive accounting lexicon and tackling our challenging sample exam quiz questions. Keep striving for excellence in your financial knowledge!