Business

Depreciation Calculator

Straight-line and declining balance schedules.

Enter your values

ⓘ Live results

Results
Annual depreciation (straight line)
$5,400.00
Total depreciated
$27,000.00
Book value at end
$3,000.00
Depreciable base
$27,000.00
YearDepreciationBook value
1$5,400.00$24,600.00
2$5,400.00$19,200.00
3$5,400.00$13,800.00
4$5,400.00$8,400.00
5$5,400.00$3,000.00

Quick answer

Depreciation spreads an asset's cost across its useful life; straight-line is even, declining balance front-loads the expense.

Straight line = (Cost − Salvage) ÷ Life

How to use the Depreciation Calculator

  1. 1Enter the asset cost and expected salvage value.
  2. 2Enter the useful life in years.
  3. 3Pick a depreciation method.

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with:

Inputs

  • Asset cost30000 $
  • Salvage value3000 $
  • Useful life5 years
  • MethodStraight line

Results

  • Annual depreciation (straight line)$5,400.00
  • Total depreciated$27,000.00
  • Book value at end$3,000.00
  • Depreciable base$27,000.00

Frequently asked questions

Which method should I use?

Straight line for reporting simplicity; declining balance when the asset loses value fast.

Is this the same as MACRS?

No — US tax depreciation uses MACRS tables, which differ from book depreciation.

About this calculator

Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.