The Posting of Depreciation Expense Will Be Done During Which Step of the Accounting Cycle?

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The Posting of Depreciation Expense Will Be Done During Which Step of the Accounting Cycle?

The accounting cycle is a systematic process that helps businesses keep track of their financial transactions and prepare accurate financial statements. It consists of several steps, each serving a specific purpose in maintaining the integrity of a company’s financial records. Depreciation expense is an essential component of the accounting cycle, as it accounts for the gradual wear and tear of a company’s assets over time. In this article, we will explore the step in which the posting of depreciation expense is done and answer some frequently asked questions related to this topic.

The posting of depreciation expense is typically done during the adjusting entries step of the accounting cycle. Adjusting entries are made at the end of an accounting period to ensure that the financial statements accurately reflect the company’s financial position. Depreciation expense is one such adjusting entry that recognizes the decrease in the value of an asset due to its usage or obsolescence.

During the adjusting entries step, the accountant reviews various accounts, including those related to assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses. They analyze the financial records and make necessary adjustments to ensure that all financial transactions are accurately recorded and reported. This step is crucial in providing a true and fair view of the company’s financial position.

The posting of depreciation expense involves two accounts: the Depreciation Expense account and the Accumulated Depreciation account. The Depreciation Expense account is an expense account that reflects the amount of depreciation incurred during the accounting period. The Accumulated Depreciation account, on the other hand, is a contra-asset account that represents the total amount of depreciation recorded since the asset’s acquisition.

To post depreciation expense, the accountant debits the Depreciation Expense account and credits the Accumulated Depreciation account. The debit to the Depreciation Expense account increases the expense, reducing the company’s net income. The credit to the Accumulated Depreciation account increases its balance, reducing the book value of the asset.

FAQs:

Q: What is depreciation?
A: Depreciation is an accounting method used to allocate the cost of an asset over its useful life. It represents the decrease in value of an asset due to factors such as wear and tear, age, or obsolescence.

Q: Why is the posting of depreciation expense done during the adjusting entries step?
A: The adjusting entries step ensures that all financial transactions are accurately recorded and reported. By posting depreciation expense during this step, the financial statements reflect the true decrease in the value of assets, providing a more accurate representation of the company’s financial position.

Q: Are all assets subject to depreciation?
A: No, not all assets are subject to depreciation. Only assets with a limited useful life, such as buildings, vehicles, and equipment, are subject to depreciation. Assets with an indefinite useful life, such as land, are not depreciated.

Q: How is the useful life of an asset determined?
A: The useful life of an asset is determined based on various factors, including industry standards, the nature of the asset, and the company’s estimation. It represents the period over which the asset is expected to contribute to the company’s operations.

Q: Can depreciation expense be reversed?
A: No, depreciation expense cannot be reversed. It is a permanent reduction in the value of an asset and is recorded as an expense in the accounting records.