Financial Accounting › Depreciation & Amortization

How does the reducing-balance method work?

Intermediate

Answer

It applies a fixed percentage to the asset's carrying (net book) value each year, giving higher charges early on.
Cost 10,000 at 20%: Yr1 2,000; Yr2 20% of 8,000 = 1,600
Real-world example Suits assets that lose value fast early, like vehicles or IT equipment.