Fixed asset schedule definition
/What is a Fixed Asset Schedule?
A fixed asset schedule is a complete listing of every fixed asset in a business. It is the source document for the fixed asset account balance listed in the general ledger. This schedule states the following information for each fixed asset listed:
1. Unique asset number
2. Fixed asset description
3. Gross cost
4. Accumulated depreciation
5. Net cost
A more detailed fixed asset schedule may also state the salvage value assumption (if any) for each fixed asset, as well as the annual depreciation ascribed to each one, shown separately by year. The type of depreciation method applied to each asset may also be listed. The listing could also include any impairment charges against an asset.
The cumulative total of all the gross cost amounts in the report should equal the balance in the general ledger account for fixed assets. If the fixed assets in the general ledger are separately recorded by type (such as for furniture & fixtures, or for machinery), the fixed asset schedule should be similarly organized, with subtotals that trace back to these account balances.
The cumulative total of all accumulated depreciation in the report should equal the balance in the general ledger account for accumulated depreciation.
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How the Fixed Asset Schedule is Used
The fixed asset schedule is routinely used by a company's auditors to verify the existence of fixed assets, and to trace these items back to the general ledger balance. As such, it is of considerable importance for the accounting staff to keep the schedule up-to-date.
Fixed Asset Schedule Best Practices
There are several ways to reduce the amount of work required to maintain the fixed asset schedule. One option is to set a high capitalization limit, so that fewer expenditures are classified as fixed assets. Also, eliminate assets from the list as soon as they are sold or otherwise disposed of, in order to reduce the size of the list. And finally, use several sub-categories of fixed assets within the schedule, so there are fewer assets within each category to reconcile.