Depreciation Calculator – Estimate Asset Value Over Time
Calculate straight-line and declining-balance depreciation with a schedule.
About the Depreciation Calculator
What is the Depreciation Calculator?
A depreciation calculator spreads the cost of an asset over its useful life using either the straight-line or the double-declining-balance method.
Why use this calculator?
Depreciation matters for accounting, tax deductions and understanding the true cost of owning equipment or vehicles. Different methods front-load or spread the expense differently.
How to use it
- Enter the asset cost and expected salvage value.
- Enter the useful life in years.
- Choose straight-line or double-declining balance.
- Review the annual expense and book value schedule.
Formula
Straight line: (cost − salvage) ÷ life. Double declining: 2 ÷ life × book value.
Tax depreciation (MACRS and similar) may differ from book depreciation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight line versus accelerated?
Straight line spreads the cost evenly. Accelerated methods take larger deductions early, which can defer taxes and better match how some assets lose value.
Can book value go below salvage?
No. A depreciation method should not depreciate an asset below its estimated salvage value.
What is the difference between marginal and effective tax rate?
Your marginal rate applies to your last dollar of income. Your effective rate is the average rate you pay across all income, which is always lower.
What is a tax deduction versus a credit?
A deduction reduces taxable income, so it saves you your marginal rate on that amount. A credit reduces your tax bill directly, dollar for dollar.
What is taxable income?
It is your gross income minus adjustments and deductions that the tax code allows, such as the standard deduction or retirement contributions.
Do these results reflect my exact jurisdiction?
No. Tax rules differ widely by country, state and year. Use these numbers as an approximation and confirm with official tables or a tax professional.
Is this calculator free to use?
Yes. Every calculator on this site is completely free, with no hidden fees, no subscriptions and no limits on how many times you can use it.
How accurate are the results?
We use standard, widely accepted formulas and calculate in your browser using double-precision arithmetic. Results are rounded for readability, so treat them as reliable estimates rather than a guarantee. Real-world factors can vary the true figure.
Can I add this calculator to my own website?
Yes. Open this calculator page and use the "Add to your website" box in the sidebar to copy a ready-made iframe snippet, then paste it into any HTML page.
Does it work on a phone or tablet?
Yes. The layout is fully responsive, so it works on desktops, laptops, tablets and mobile phones, and every input adapts to touch screens.