The straight-line method in computing for depreciation expense is the prevailing method used in the Philippines. This paper aims to determine the rationale behind the use of this method. The objective of the study is ...The straight-line method in computing for depreciation expense is the prevailing method used in the Philippines. This paper aims to determine the rationale behind the use of this method. The objective of the study is to determine the length of time within which the depreciation method is used, reasons in using the method, the rate of depreciation used by the companies, and the effects of the depreciation expense on their operating expenses. It also determines if the companies＇ decisions to use the straight-line method are influenced by the factors mentioned by Reynolds （196 I）----expected amount of services over the life of assets, the amount and timing of operating costs, the decline in the physical efficiency of the assets, and the rate of return--and if they considered capital investments and tax reduction in using this method. The study shows that companies and educational institutions use the straight-line method of computing depreciation expenses, because it is easy to use in computing the depreciation expenses, in comparing with previous years＇ computations, and in keeping track of the expenses. It is also convenient for tax administration and financial reporting. The rate of depreciation used varies, because the companies and educational institutions use their past experiences in determining the life of fixed assets. The percentage of depreciation to the operating expenses also varies. The companies and educational institutions adhered to the factors mentioned by Reynolds （1961） in choosing the straight-line method of depreciation. The companies did not consider reduction of tax in using the straight-line method.展开更多
文摘The straight-line method in computing for depreciation expense is the prevailing method used in the Philippines. This paper aims to determine the rationale behind the use of this method. The objective of the study is to determine the length of time within which the depreciation method is used, reasons in using the method, the rate of depreciation used by the companies, and the effects of the depreciation expense on their operating expenses. It also determines if the companies＇ decisions to use the straight-line method are influenced by the factors mentioned by Reynolds （196 I）----expected amount of services over the life of assets, the amount and timing of operating costs, the decline in the physical efficiency of the assets, and the rate of return--and if they considered capital investments and tax reduction in using this method. The study shows that companies and educational institutions use the straight-line method of computing depreciation expenses, because it is easy to use in computing the depreciation expenses, in comparing with previous years＇ computations, and in keeping track of the expenses. It is also convenient for tax administration and financial reporting. The rate of depreciation used varies, because the companies and educational institutions use their past experiences in determining the life of fixed assets. The percentage of depreciation to the operating expenses also varies. The companies and educational institutions adhered to the factors mentioned by Reynolds （1961） in choosing the straight-line method of depreciation. The companies did not consider reduction of tax in using the straight-line method.
