Double-declining balance method: Definition, benefits, and accounting basics

In this article, we delve into the double-declining balance method, a popular depreciation technique. While this method offers accelerated depreciation, which can be advantageous for tax purposes and financial reporting, it may also lead to inaccurate asset valuations and reduced book values over time. We explore the nuances of this method and offer insights into how to implement and overcome its potential drawbacks, ensuring that businesses strike the right balance between tax benefits and accurate asset valuation.

What is the double declining balance method?

The double declining balance method is a widely used asset depreciation method. It is a form of accelerated depreciation that allows businesses to allocate a higher portion of an asset's cost as an expense in the earlier years of its useful life. This method assumes that assets tend to lose their value more rapidly in their initial years of operation and gradually slow down in depreciation over time.

This method is most suitable for assets that exhibit a faster decline in their value early in their useful lives, such as:

• Technology and equipment: Assets like computers, smartphones, and specialized machinery often have a rapid decrease in value as newer, more advanced versions are developed. Double-declining balance depreciation may more accurately reflect the diminishing value of these assets.³‍
• Vehicles: Automobiles and other vehicles typically experience significant depreciation in their first few years due to wear and tear, making this method suitable for reflecting this decline.
• Office furniture: Office furniture and fixtures may lose value quickly, especially if they have a trendy or stylish design that becomes outdated over time.
• Software: Computer software can become obsolete relatively fast as new versions or technological advancements are introduced. This approach can match the declining value of software assets.
• Leasehold improvements: Improvements made to leased properties, such as tenant fit-outs, can depreciate rapidly, and the method is useful for capturing this decline.
• Certain types of machinery: Some specialized machinery may have a high rate of wear and tear, resulting in faster depreciation. Double-declining balance method can align with this pattern.
• Short-lived assets: Assets with relatively short expected useful lives, such as certain types of tools or equipment, are good candidates for this technique.

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How does the double-declining balance method work?

Double-declining balance depreciation applies a fixed rate to an asset's decreasing book value each year. This rate is double the straight-line depreciation rate. By doubling the depreciation rate, the method accelerates the recognition of depreciation expenses, resulting in lower book values for assets on the balance sheet in the initial years.

Benefits of the double-declining balance method

The double-declining balance method is a depreciation method used in accounting to allocate  an asset's cost over its useful life. 

• Accelerated depreciation: The double declining balance method allows for higher depreciation expenses in the earlier years of an asset's life, which can provide a more accurate representation of its decreasing value over time.¹‍
• Matching expenses: It helps in matching depreciation expenses with the higher revenue generated by an asset in its earlier years, which may result in more accurate income statements.
• Tax benefits: Accelerated depreciation may lead to lower taxable income in the short term, resulting in reduced income tax liabilities.²‍
• Reflects realistic wear and tear: This method is especially suitable for assets that experience significant wear and tear in their initial years, providing a more realistic representation of their decreasing value.
• Budgeting and planning: It aids in better financial planning and budgeting by accurately reflecting the asset's declining value over its useful life.

Downsides to the double-declining balance method

While the double-declining balance method has its advantages, it also has some drawbacks:

• Lower book values: Assets can have lower book values on the balance sheet in the initial years, affecting financial ratios and the perception of a company's financial health.
• Complexity: Calculating depreciation using this method can be more complex than using the straight-line method, which may require specialized accounting knowledge.

Alternative depreciation methods

Several alternative depreciation methods exist, including:

1. Sum-of-the-years'-digits: Accelerates depreciation but not as aggressively as the double-declining balance method.
2. Units of production: Bases depreciation on an asset's usage or production.

Steps to apply double-declining balance depreciation

When it comes to applying the double-declining balance method, accountants should adhere to specific guidelines to ensure accurate depreciation calculations.

1. Determine the asset's cost: Before beginning any calculations, it is essential to identify the initial cost of the asset you intend to depreciate. This figure serves as the foundation for all subsequent calculations.
2. Determine the asset's useful life: Estimate the number of years the asset will remain productive. This estimation is a critical factor in the depreciation calculation, as it determines the period over which the asset's value will be reduced.
3. Calculate the straight-line depreciation: To initiate the double-declining balance method, you must first calculate the straight-line depreciation. Use the formula: (cost - salvage value) / useful life to compute this value.
4. Calculate the double-declining balance: With the straight-line depreciation in hand, it's time to apply the double-declining balance method. Begin by doubling the straight-line depreciation amount and then multiply this value by the asset's book value at the beginning of the year.
5. Repeat the process: Continue repeating the above steps for each subsequent year until the asset's book value equals its salvage value or the asset is fully depreciated.

Double-declining balance depreciation example

By correctly calculating the depreciation each year, accountants can accurately reflect the diminishing value of an asset on the company's financial statements. 

Imagine a company purchases machinery for $50,000 with an estimated useful life of 5 years and no salvage value. Here's how you would apply the double-declining balance method:

Year 1:

• Straight-line depreciation = ($50,000 - $0) / 5 = $10,000
• Double-declining balance depreciation = $10,000 * 2 = $20,000
• Book value at year start = $50,000
• Book value at year end = $50,000 - $20,000 = $30,000

Year 2:

• Double-declining balance depreciation = $30,000 * 2 = $60,000 (limited to $20,000 to match book value)
• Book value at year start = $30,000
• Book value at year-end = $30,000 - $20,000 = $10,000

Frequently asked questions 

How does the double declining balance method differ from straight-line depreciation?

Understanding the key distinctions between the double-declining balance method and straight-line depreciation is crucial for accountants. 

• Depreciation pattern: The double-declining balance method accelerates depreciation in the early years of an asset's life, reflecting the fact that many assets lose value rapidly when first put into use. In contrast, straight-line depreciation maintains a consistent rate of depreciation throughout an asset's life.
• Book value: Under the double-declining balance method, the asset's book value decreases more rapidly compared to straight-line depreciation. This can have significant implications for financial reporting and tax calculations.
• Income statement impact: The double-declining balance method results in higher depreciation expenses in the early years, potentially reducing taxable income, while straight-line depreciation leads to more stable expenses over time.

Is the double-declining balance method allowed under Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)?

Yes, the method is an acceptable depreciation method under GAAP. It's important to ensure that its application complies with the specific guidelines and requirements of GAAP.

What happens if an asset's book value falls below its salvage value using the double-declining balance method?

If an asset's book value falls below its salvage value during the depreciation process, adjust the depreciation expense in that year to ensure it does not go below the salvage value. This adjustment ensures that the asset's book value never falls below its expected salvage value.

Are there limitations to using the double-declining balance method for financial reporting?

While the method is a valuable tool for reflecting the depreciation of certain assets accurately, it may not be suitable for all situations. For financial reporting, consider the appropriateness of this method for your specific circumstances and adhere to the relevant accounting standards and regulations.

What is the relationship between accumulated depreciation and the double-declining balance method?

Accumulated depreciation is the cumulative depreciation expense recognized as an asset over its lifetime. Under the double-declining balance method, accumulated depreciation accumulates more rapidly in the early years of an asset's life, reflecting accelerated depreciation.

How do I account for changes in an asset's useful life or salvage value when using the double-declining balance method?

If there are changes in an asset's useful life or salvage value, adjustments must be made to the depreciation calculation. These changes should be accounted for in the year they occur, and the depreciation expense should be adjusted accordingly.

Sources:

1. Kenton, W. (2022, April 6). Understanding the Declining Balance Method. Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/d/decliningbalancemethod.asp
2. Depreciation and Accelerated Depreciation Method & Benefits. (n.d.). McGuire Sponsel. https://mcguiresponsel.com/fixed-asset-services/cost-segregation/accelerated-depreciation/
3. The Double Declining Balance Depreciation Method - businessnewsdaily.com. (n.d.). Business News Daily. https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/16478-double-declining-balance-depreciation.html