Depreciation Schedule: Determining the Useful Life and Depreciation Correctly

The Depreciation Schedule It specifies the standard useful life for nearly every asset—and thus determines the number of years over which you can depreciate it. This article explains what the depreciation table is, what types exist, and how to find the correct useful life.

Key Points at a Glance

• The depreciation tables of the Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF) determine the normal useful life.
• There is a generally applicable Table (AV) and many industry-specific Tables.
• The useful life determines the annual depreciation amount.
• Computers and Software may be recognized as of 2021 with a useful life of one year.

What is the depreciation table?

The Depreciation Schedule is an official directory in which the Federal Ministry of Finance lists economic assets normal useful life specifies. This useful life serves as the basis for straight-line depreciation: acquisition cost divided by useful life yields the annual depreciation amount. Although the tables do not have the force of law, they are recognized by the tax authorities as a guideline.

What depreciation tables are available?

• Depreciation Schedule AV – for general-purpose capital assets used across various industries (e.g., office furniture, vehicles, IT equipment).
• Industry Tables – supplementary tables for individual economic sectors (e.g., construction, hospitality, agriculture).

Examples of useful lives

Please always refer to the current depreciation table for the exact values; industry-specific assets may vary.

How to Use the Depreciation Table

1. Determine the economic asset and search in the appropriate table (AV or industry).
2. Check the service life.
3. Calculate Annual Depreciation: Acquisition cost ÷ useful life.
4. Add to the asset register, so that the depreciation remains transparent.

Special Case: Computers and Software

Since 2021, the tax authorities have allowed a useful life of one year for computer hardware and software. This means that these assets can be fully depreciated in the year of acquisition.

Accurately Tracking Assets—The Foundation of Depreciation

Any depreciation calculation requires that you know which assets you own, how much they cost, and when they were purchased. This is exactly what a well-maintained fixed asset or inventory list provides. With Inventory ONE Record each fixed asset using Cost, Date, and Useful Life via scan—the perfect basis for your depreciation. Learn more on our pages about Inventory management and to the Inventory system.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Depreciation Schedule (FAQ)

What is the depreciation table?

An official directory published by the Federal Ministry of Finance that specifies the standard useful life of assets—the basis for depreciation.

Is the depreciation table legally binding?

It does not have the force of law, but is recognized by the tax authorities as a guideline and is applied in practice.

What is the useful life of a computer?

Since 2021, a useful life of one year may be applied to computer hardware and software.

Where can I find the correct useful life?

In the general depreciation table (AV) or in the relevant industry-specific table published by the Federal Ministry of Finance.

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for tax advice. The regulations mentioned are current as of 2026; the applicable tax regulations in effect at any given time shall prevail. Please consult your tax advisor regarding your specific situation.

More Articles on Depreciation & Fixed Assets

• Depreciation (AfA) – Basics & Methods
• Depreciation Schedule – Find the Useful Life (this article)
• Calculate Depreciation – Calculator & Examples
• Low-Value Assets (LVA)
• Maintain an asset register