Accounting & Bookkeeping

What is Fixed Assets?

Long-term tangible assets owned by a business that are used in operations and not intended for sale, such as land, buildings, machinery, vehicles, and equipment.

How It Works

Fixed assets (also called Property, Plant & Equipment or PP&E) are assets with a useful life exceeding one year that a business uses to generate revenue. They are recorded at cost on the balance sheet and depreciated over their useful life (except land, which doesn't depreciate). Fixed assets are classified as non-current assets. The fixed asset register tracks each asset's purchase date, cost, location, depreciation, and book value. Proper fixed asset management is crucial for tax optimization (depreciation claims) and insurance coverage.

Formula

Book Value = Original Cost − Accumulated Depreciation

Real-World Example

A company buys machinery for ₹20,00,000 with a 10-year useful life and no residual value. After 4 years: Accumulated Depreciation = ₹8,00,000, Book Value = ₹12,00,000. This appears on the balance sheet at ₹12,00,000.

Why It Matters

1

Ensures accurate financial reporting and record-keeping

2

Helps maintain regulatory and tax compliance

3

Enables better-informed business decisions

4

Improves operational efficiency and cash flow management

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between fixed assets and current assets?

Fixed assets are long-term (buildings, machinery) used in operations for multiple years. Current assets are short-term (cash, inventory, receivables) expected to convert to cash within one year. Fixed assets are depreciated; current assets are not.

Why is a fixed asset register important?

It tracks every asset's cost, location, depreciation, and current value. Required for: accurate depreciation calculations (tax benefits), insurance claims, audit compliance, sale/disposal tracking, and Companies Act 2013 compliance in India.

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