Depreciation Methods and Rates as an Instrument of Optimization of Direct Taxes

Abstract

Depreciation of fixed assets and intangible assets is a crucial instrument having the impact on the structure of costs related to income taxes. Depreciation enables the taxpayer to “regain” money spent on the purchase of used assets. Selection of a suitable depreciation method as well as the right to change the depreciation rate not only enables the taxpayer to have an infl uence on the duration of the depreciation process but also on the amount of depreciation write-downs determining the amount of the tax base and the amount of tax. In this way, the taxpayer can also legally reduce the tax obligation.