What is a depreciating asset?

When considering depreciation, the first question to answer is - do I use depreciating assets in my business?

Depreciating assets are assets that have a limited effective life and can reasonably be expected to decline in value over the time they’re used.

Depreciating assets are items like:

  • tools and equipment (for example, electric sanders and saws)
  • computers, laptops and tablets
  • office furniture (freestanding)
  • office equipment (for example, coffee machines) motor vehicles (for example, cars, vans and tractors).

Not all assets are depreciating assets. For example, land and trading stock.

The questions to ask to work out if you can claim depreciation for your assets. The first question is highlighted, which is ‘Do I use depreciating assets in my business?"

Depreciation

Steps Progress

Depreciation – the big picture

6 mins

Do I use depreciating assets in my business?

3 mins

Am I holding any depreciating assets?

4 mins

Can I use simplified depreciation for small business?

6 mins

Simplified depreciation: exclusions and other considerations

15 mins

Simplified depreciation: can I use the instant asset write-off?

5 mins

Simplified depreciation: using a small business pool

15 mins

Can I use general depreciation?

7 mins

Calculating depreciation using general depreciation rules

5 mins

General depreciation: ceasing to hold or use a depreciating asset

5 mins

General depreciation: low-value asset pool

9 mins

Can I use the capital works deduction or other special rules?

4 mins

Record-keeping

2 mins

Related courses

1 mins

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