About Depreciation Calculator

Calculates asset depreciation using straight-line or double-declining balance methods. Enter asset cost, salvage value, and useful life to get a year-by-year schedule showing annual depreciation expense and ending book value for up to 6 years. Includes presets for common assets like laptops, vehicles, and equipment.

• Straight-line method: (Cost − Salvage) ÷ Useful Life = constant annual depreciation
• Double-declining balance: 2 ÷ Useful Life × Beginning Book Value, capped at salvage value
• Schedule displays up to 6 years of annual depreciation and ending book value
• Three asset presets: Laptop ($1,800/3yr), Vehicle ($28,000/5yr), Equipment ($120,000/7yr)
• Copy formatted summary or export full schedule as JSON
• Live results update as you change inputs—no calculate button needed

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use double-declining vs. straight-line?

Double-declining front-loads depreciation expense, which is useful for assets that lose value rapidly in early years (vehicles, electronics). Straight-line spreads cost evenly and is simpler for tax reporting. Most small businesses default to straight-line unless their accountant recommends otherwise.

Why does the schedule only show 6 years?

It caps at 6 years for display clarity. For assets with longer useful lives, the pattern is established by year 6—straight-line continues at the same rate, and double-declining converges toward salvage value.