Recoverable amount

Definition

Recoverable amount is the higher of an asset's fair value less costs to sell and its value in use, representing the maximum value that can be obtained from an asset. This concept is crucial in determining whether an asset is impaired, as it helps to assess if the carrying amount exceeds the amount that can be recovered through either its sale or continued use.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Recoverable amount is assessed at each reporting date to ensure that assets are not carried at more than their recoverable amounts.
2. When evaluating recoverable amount, both fair value less costs to sell and value in use must be calculated to determine which is higher.
3. The process of determining recoverable amount is essential for identifying impairments and ensuring accurate financial reporting.
4. If the recoverable amount of an asset is lower than its carrying amount, an impairment loss must be recognized in the financial statements.
5. Cash-generating units may also have a recoverable amount calculated, allowing for impairment assessments of groups of assets rather than individual ones.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of recoverable amount relate to asset impairment assessments?
  • Recoverable amount plays a crucial role in asset impairment assessments by determining whether an asset's carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. If the carrying amount is greater than the recoverable amount, it indicates that the asset may be impaired, prompting further evaluation. The recoverable amount must be calculated by considering both fair value less costs to sell and value in use, ensuring that any necessary impairment losses are accurately reported.
• Discuss the significance of calculating both fair value less costs to sell and value in use when determining recoverable amounts.
  • Calculating both fair value less costs to sell and value in use is significant because it ensures that the highest possible valuation of an asset is considered when assessing its recoverable amount. Fair value provides a market-based perspective, while value in use focuses on future cash flows expected from the asset. By comparing these two measures, organizations can make informed decisions about whether an asset is impaired and take appropriate actions to maintain accurate financial records.
• Evaluate how failure to accurately determine recoverable amounts can impact financial reporting and decision-making for a business.
  • Failure to accurately determine recoverable amounts can lead to significant misstatements in financial reporting, resulting in overstated asset values and potential losses for stakeholders. This misreporting could mislead investors and creditors regarding the company's financial health, potentially impacting funding opportunities and stock prices. Moreover, incorrect assessments may hinder management's ability to make informed operational decisions, as they may rely on flawed data regarding the performance and viability of assets.

Related terms

impairment: A reduction in the carrying amount of an asset when its recoverable amount falls below its carrying amount.

fair value: The price at which an asset could be sold in a current transaction between willing parties, not forced or liquidated.

value in use: The present value of the future cash flows expected to be derived from an asset, which is used to calculate recoverable amount.