Deferred taxation is a concept that is often encountered in financial accounting. It refers to the difference between the amount of tax that a company is required to pay in a given period and the amount that it actually pays. This difference arises because of temporary differences between the book value of assets and liabilities and their tax values. Deferred taxation may be a part of which equity account is an important question that arises in this context.
In financial accounting, deferred taxation is accounted for as either a liability or an asset, depending on the circumstances. If the amount of tax that a company is required to pay in the future is greater than the amount that it has already paid, then the deferred tax is accounted for as a liability. Conversely, if the amount of tax that a company is required to pay in the future is less than the amount that it has already paid, then the deferred tax is accounted for as an asset. The equity account that deferred taxation may be a part of depends on the classification of the deferred tax as either a liability or an asset.
Key Takeaways:
- Deferred taxation is a concept that arises due to temporary differences between book values and tax values of assets and liabilities.
- Deferred taxation is accounted for as either a liability or an asset, depending on the circumstances.
- The equity account that deferred taxation may be a part of depends on the classification of the deferred tax as either a liability or an asset.
Understanding Deferred Taxation
Deferred taxation is a concept in tax accounting that refers to the difference between the tax expense recognized in the income statement and the actual taxes paid to the government. It is a temporary difference that arises due to the timing of when certain transactions are recognized for tax purposes versus accounting purposes.
Deferred taxation may be a part of the equity account, specifically the equity section of the balance sheet. This is because deferred taxes can affect a company’s net income and, therefore, its retained earnings.
There are two types of deferred taxes: deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets. A deferred tax liability arises when a company has paid less in taxes than the amount it has recognized in its financial statements. A deferred tax asset, on the other hand, arises when a company has paid more in taxes than the amount it has recognized in its financial statements.
Deferred taxation is a complex topic that requires careful consideration and analysis. Companies must ensure that they are accurately accounting for their deferred taxes to avoid any potential legal or financial issues. This requires a thorough understanding of tax laws and regulations, as well as accounting principles and practices.
In summary, deferred taxation is an important concept in tax accounting that can affect a company’s equity account. Companies must carefully consider and accurately account for their deferred taxes to avoid any potential legal or financial issues.
Deferred Taxation in Financial Accounting
Deferred taxation is a financial accounting concept that refers to the difference between the tax amount paid by a company and the tax amount that is reported on its financial statements. It is a result of differences between the accounting rules and tax laws that apply to a company’s financial statements.
Under GAAP and IFRS, companies are required to report their financial statements using the accrual basis of accounting. This means that revenue is recognized when it is earned, regardless of when it is received, and expenses are recognized when they are incurred, regardless of when they are paid. However, income tax laws require companies to pay taxes on their taxable income, which may be different from their accounting earnings.
Deferred taxation is calculated by applying the applicable tax rate to the temporary differences between the financial statement and tax return values of assets and liabilities. Temporary differences arise when the tax basis of an asset or liability differs from its financial reporting basis.
Deferred taxation may be a part of the equity account as it represents the future tax consequences of events that have already been recognized in the financial statements. It is reported on the balance sheet as a non-current liability or asset, depending on whether the company has overpaid or underpaid its taxes.
ASC 740 provides guidance on accounting for income taxes. It requires companies to disclose the amount of deferred taxes on their financial statements and the reasons for the changes in the deferred tax balances. Companies are also required to disclose their accounting methods for recognizing revenue and expenses for income tax purposes.
In summary, deferred taxation is an important concept in financial reporting as it reflects the future tax consequences of events that have already been recognized in the financial statements. It is calculated by applying the applicable tax rate to the temporary differences between the financial statement and tax return values of assets and liabilities. Companies are required to disclose their deferred tax balances and accounting methods for recognizing revenue and expenses for income tax purposes.
Calculating Deferred Taxation
Deferred taxation is a part of the equity account that arises due to differences between tax laws and accounting standards. It is a temporary difference between the tax base and carrying value of an asset or liability. The calculation of deferred taxation involves the following entities:
Taxable Profit
Taxable profit is the profit on which tax is payable. It is calculated by deducting allowable expenses from the accounting profit.
Tax Base
The tax base is the amount that will be deductible for tax purposes in future periods. It is the carrying value of an asset or liability for tax purposes.
Tax Rate
The tax rate is the rate at which tax is calculated. It is determined by the tax laws of the country in which the entity operates.
Tax Expense
Tax expense is the amount of tax payable for the current period. It is calculated by applying the tax rate to the taxable profit.
Tax Liabilities
Tax liabilities are the amounts of tax payable to the tax authorities. They are recorded as liabilities on the balance sheet.
Tax Relief
Tax relief is the reduction in tax payable due to tax losses or other tax credits.
Tax Losses
Tax losses are losses that can be carried forward to offset future taxable profits.
Total Tax Expense
Total tax expense is the sum of current tax expense and deferred tax expense.
Effective Tax Rates
Effective tax rates are the rates at which tax is actually paid. They are calculated by dividing total tax expense by accounting profit.
Anticipated Tax Rate
Anticipated tax rate is the expected tax rate for future periods. It is used to calculate deferred tax assets and liabilities.
Applicable Tax Rate
Applicable tax rate is the tax rate that will be used to calculate tax in future periods. It is used to calculate deferred tax assets and liabilities.
In conclusion, calculating deferred taxation requires an understanding of tax laws and accounting standards. It involves the calculation of taxable profit, tax base, tax rate, tax expense, tax liabilities, tax relief, tax losses, total tax expense, effective tax rates, anticipated tax rate, and applicable tax rate.
Deferred Taxation and Depreciation
Deferred taxation is a part of the equity account that is used to record the difference between the tax basis of an asset or liability and its financial reporting basis. One of the most common reasons for deferred taxation is the difference in depreciation methods used for tax and financial reporting purposes.
Depreciation is the systematic allocation of the cost of a fixed asset over its useful life. Straight-line depreciation is the most common method used for financial reporting purposes, where the cost of the asset is allocated evenly over its useful life. Accelerated depreciation methods, such as double declining balance or sum of the years’ digits, allocate more depreciation expense in the early years of the asset’s useful life.
For tax purposes, the depreciation method used may be different from the method used for financial reporting. Tax depreciation methods may be more accelerated, allowing for a larger tax deduction in the early years of the asset’s useful life. This difference in depreciation methods can result in a deferred tax liability or asset.
A deferred tax liability arises when the tax basis of an asset is greater than its financial reporting basis. This means that the company has already taken a larger tax deduction than what is allowed for financial reporting purposes. A deferred tax asset arises when the tax basis of an asset is less than its financial reporting basis. This means that the company has not yet taken the full tax deduction allowed for financial reporting purposes.
Depreciation expense is recorded on the income statement as a non-cash expense. However, it does affect the amount of taxes owed. The difference in depreciation methods used for tax and financial reporting purposes can result in a difference in the amount of taxes owed in a given year.
In conclusion, deferred taxation may be a part of the equity account that is affected by depreciation methods used for tax and financial reporting purposes. The difference in depreciation methods can result in a deferred tax liability or asset, which affects the amount of taxes owed in a given year. It is important for companies to understand the impact of depreciation methods on deferred taxation to accurately report their financial position and performance.
Deferred Taxation and Temporary Differences
Deferred taxation is a concept in accounting that refers to the difference between the tax payable by a company and the tax it reports in its financial statements. This difference arises due to temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and their tax base.
Temporary differences occur when the tax base of an asset or liability differs from its carrying amount in the financial statements. This difference may be either taxable or deductible in the future, resulting in a deferred tax liability or asset, respectively.
Timing differences are another term used interchangeably with temporary differences. They arise when the recognition of income or expenses in the financial statements differs from their recognition for tax purposes.
Taxable temporary differences arise when the tax base of an asset or liability exceeds its carrying amount in the financial statements. This results in a deferred tax liability, as the company will need to pay more tax in the future when the temporary difference reverses.
Deductible temporary differences, on the other hand, occur when the carrying amount of an asset or liability exceeds its tax base. This results in a deferred tax asset, as the company will pay less tax in the future when the temporary difference reverses.
Overall, deferred taxation is an important aspect of accounting that can impact a company’s financial statements and tax liabilities. By understanding how temporary differences arise and how they affect a company’s tax position, investors and analysts can make better-informed decisions.
In summary, temporary differences and timing differences are the key drivers of deferred taxation, resulting in either deferred tax assets or liabilities. It is important for companies to accurately account for these differences in their financial statements to avoid potential penalties and ensure compliance with tax regulations.
Deferred Taxation and Losses
Deferred taxation may be a part of the equity account when a company has losses or loss carryforwards. These losses can be used to offset future taxable income, resulting in a lower tax bill. However, in order to recognize the tax benefit of these losses, a company must first establish a deferred tax asset.
A deferred tax asset is created when a company has tax loss carryforwards that can be used to offset future taxable income. This asset is recorded on the balance sheet as a reduction to income tax expense. If a company has a history of losses, it may have a significant deferred tax asset on its balance sheet.
Write-downs can also create deferred taxation. When a company writes down an asset, it may be able to recognize a tax benefit. This benefit is recorded as a deferred tax asset and reduces the company’s income tax expense.
It is important to note that deferred tax assets are subject to valuation allowances. If a company does not believe that it will be able to utilize its tax loss carryforwards or other deferred tax assets, it must establish a valuation allowance. This allowance reduces the value of the deferred tax asset on the balance sheet.
In summary, deferred taxation can be created by losses, loss carryforwards, tax loss carryforwards, and write-downs. These assets are recorded on the balance sheet as a reduction to income tax expense, but are subject to valuation allowances. Companies must carefully consider the value of their deferred tax assets when preparing financial statements.
Deferred Taxation and Assets
Deferred taxation is a concept that is closely related to the accounting treatment of assets. It is a way of accounting for the difference between the tax base of an asset and its book value. This difference arises because most assets are subject to depreciation, which is a tax-deductible expense.
Deferred taxation can be a part of several equity accounts, including retained earnings, other comprehensive income, and equity attributable to the parent. The specific account used depends on the nature of the deferred tax liability.
Fixed assets, also known as long-lived assets, are a common type of asset that can be subject to deferred taxation. These assets are typically used for more than one accounting period and are subject to depreciation. The tax base of a fixed asset is the amount that can be deducted for tax purposes, while the book value is the cost of the asset less accumulated depreciation.
Financial assets, such as stocks and bonds, may also be subject to deferred taxation. The tax base of a financial asset is the amount that can be deducted for tax purposes, while the book value is the fair value of the asset.
In summary, deferred taxation is an important concept in accounting for assets. It reflects the difference between the tax base and the book value of an asset and can be a part of several equity accounts. Fixed assets and financial assets are common types of assets that may be subject to deferred taxation.
Deferred Taxation and Liabilities
When a company’s accounting practices differ from tax laws, deferred taxation arises. This occurs when the tax laws require a different treatment of income and expenses than accounting principles. Deferred taxation may be part of a company’s equity account or its liabilities.
Deferred taxation is a liability because it represents future tax payments that the company is obligated to make. This obligation arises because the company has already received a tax benefit from the difference in accounting principles and tax laws. The company will have to pay this tax benefit back in the future when the tax laws catch up with the accounting principles.
A deferred tax liability (DTL) is created when the company’s taxable income is less than its accounting income. This means that the company has already received a tax benefit from the difference in accounting principles and tax laws, but it will have to pay this tax benefit back in the future when the tax laws catch up with the accounting principles.
DTLs are recorded on the balance sheet as a liability. They are calculated by multiplying the temporary differences between accounting income and taxable income by the tax rate that will be in effect when the differences reverse.
In conclusion, deferred taxation may be part of a company’s equity account or its liabilities. When it is a liability, it represents future tax payments that the company is obligated to make. DTLs are recorded on the balance sheet as a liability and are calculated by multiplying the temporary differences between accounting income and taxable income by the tax rate that will be in effect when the differences reverse.
Deferred Taxation and Cash Flow
Deferred taxation is a concept in accounting that refers to the difference between the tax payable and tax expense. It arises due to differences in the timing of recognition of income and expenses for tax and accounting purposes. Deferred taxation can be a part of the equity account, which is a component of the balance sheet.
When it comes to cash flow, deferred taxation can have a significant impact. It is important to note that deferred taxation does not affect cash flows in the current period. However, it can have an impact on cash flows in future periods. This is because deferred taxation is recognized when the tax payable is different from the tax expense. This difference is eventually settled in the future when the tax payable is paid or refunded.
In terms of net income, deferred taxation can also have an impact. This is because deferred taxation is recognized as a component of income tax expense. Income tax expense is a component of net income. Therefore, any changes in deferred taxation can affect net income.
It is important to note that deferred taxation is recognized in the period in which the temporary difference reverses. This means that deferred taxation is recognized in the period in which the tax payable is paid or refunded. Therefore, any changes in deferred taxation will not affect cash flows until the period in which the temporary difference reverses.
In conclusion, deferred taxation can have an impact on cash flows and net income. However, it is important to note that any changes in deferred taxation will not affect cash flows until the period in which the temporary difference reverses.
Deferred Taxation in Different Jurisdictions
Deferred taxation is a common accounting practice that involves the recognition of tax liabilities or assets in a company’s financial statements. The treatment of deferred taxation may vary across different jurisdictions due to differences in tax laws and accounting standards. This section will explore the treatment of deferred taxation in various jurisdictions, including UK GAAP, Canadian GAAP, IAS 12, and SFAS 109.
UK GAAP
Under UK GAAP, deferred taxation is accounted for using the balance sheet liability method. This involves recognizing deferred tax liabilities or assets based on the temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and their tax bases. The deferred tax is then measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply when the asset is realized or the liability is settled.
Canadian GAAP
Canadian GAAP also requires the recognition of deferred taxation using the balance sheet liability method. The measurement of deferred tax liabilities or assets is based on the tax rates that are expected to apply when the asset is realized or the liability is settled. However, Canadian GAAP also allows for the recognition of future income tax assets based on the expected use of tax losses and other tax attributes.
IAS 12
IAS 12 is the international accounting standard that governs the treatment of deferred taxation. Under IAS 12, deferred tax liabilities or assets are recognized based on the temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and their tax bases. The deferred tax is then measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply when the asset is realized or the liability is settled.
SFAS 109
SFAS 109 is the US accounting standard that governs the treatment of deferred taxation. Under SFAS 109, deferred tax liabilities or assets are recognized based on the temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and their tax bases. The deferred tax is then measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply when the asset is realized or the liability is settled.
In conclusion, the treatment of deferred taxation may vary across different jurisdictions due to differences in tax laws and accounting standards. However, the basic principles of recognizing and measuring deferred tax liabilities or assets remain the same.
Deferred Taxation and Management
Deferred taxation is a significant part of the equity account that management must consider when preparing financial statements. It is a method of accounting for income taxes that recognizes the differences between the book and tax basis of assets and liabilities. These differences can arise due to various reasons such as depreciation, amortization, and inventory valuation.
Management must determine the appropriate valuation allowance for deferred tax assets. A valuation allowance is a reserve created to offset the potential future losses of a deferred tax asset. If management believes that it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will not be realized, then a valuation allowance must be established.
Discounting is another important aspect of deferred taxation that management must consider. Discounting is the process of adjusting the future cash flows of an asset or liability to their present value. This adjustment is made to reflect the time value of money, which is the concept that a dollar received today is worth more than a dollar received in the future.
Derecognition is the process of removing an asset or liability from the balance sheet. Management must determine if a deferred tax asset or liability should be derecognized when it is no longer expected to be realized or settled.
Capital expenditure is another area where deferred taxation can impact financial statements. Capital expenditures are investments in long-term assets that provide benefits over a period of time. Management must determine the appropriate tax treatment for these expenditures and recognize the associated deferred tax assets or liabilities.
In conclusion, management must carefully consider deferred taxation when preparing financial statements. Valuation allowances, discounting, derecognition, and capital expenditures are all important areas where deferred taxation can impact financial statements. By understanding these concepts and making appropriate adjustments, management can provide accurate and transparent financial statements.
Special Cases in Deferred Taxation
Deferred taxation is an accounting concept that allows companies to recognize the tax effects of temporary differences between accounting and tax bases of assets and liabilities. While deferred taxation is a common practice, there are some special cases that require extra attention.
Installment Sale
When a company sells an asset on an installment basis, the tax liability is deferred until the installment payments are received. However, the company must recognize the entire profit in the year of sale for accounting purposes. This results in a temporary difference that requires deferred taxation.
401(k)
Contributions to a 401(k) plan are tax-deductible, but the withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income. This results in a temporary difference that requires deferred taxation.
Warranty Expense
Warranty expense is recognized in the year of sale for accounting purposes, but the tax deduction is deferred until the warranty is actually paid. This results in a temporary difference that requires deferred taxation.
Overpaid/Underpaid Taxes
If a company overpays its taxes, it can recognize a deferred tax asset for the overpayment. If a company underpays its taxes, it can recognize a deferred tax liability for the underpayment.
Money Due
If a company is owed money, it can recognize a deferred tax asset for the expected tax benefit. If a company owes money, it can recognize a deferred tax liability for the expected tax expense.
Overall, deferred taxation is a complex concept that requires careful consideration of the specific circumstances. By understanding the special cases, companies can ensure that they are properly accounting for their deferred tax liabilities and assets.
Deferred Taxation Position
Deferred taxation is a financial accounting concept that arises due to differences between the accounting and tax rules. It is an accounting technique that allows companies to recognize the tax effects of future transactions or events that have been recognized in their financial statements. The deferred taxation position is a part of the equity account that reflects the difference between the tax base and the carrying amount of an asset or liability.
Deferred tax accounting involves calculating the amount of deferred tax assets and liabilities that a company has on its balance sheet. The deferred tax asset arises when the tax payable in the future is less than the tax paid in the current year. On the other hand, the deferred tax liability arises when the tax payable in the future is more than the tax paid in the current year.
Deferred income tax is a type of tax that is paid at a later date. This tax is calculated based on the difference between the tax basis of an asset or liability and its carrying amount. Corporate income tax is the tax that is paid by companies on their profits. The deferred taxation position is an important aspect of corporate income tax planning.
Customers are also affected by the deferred taxation position of a company. For example, if a company has a large deferred tax liability, it may have to increase the price of its products to cover the additional tax liability. On the other hand, if a company has a large deferred tax asset, it may be able to offer its products at a lower price.
Tax authorities are also interested in the deferred taxation position of companies. They want to ensure that companies are paying the correct amount of tax and are not using deferred taxation as a way to avoid paying tax. Tax authorities may also require companies to provide additional information about their deferred taxation position.
In conclusion, the deferred taxation position is an important aspect of financial accounting that reflects the difference between the tax base and the carrying amount of an asset or liability. It affects companies, customers, and tax authorities, and is an important aspect of corporate income tax planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recognition criteria for deferred tax assets and liabilities?
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized when there is a difference between the carrying amount and the tax base of an asset or liability, and it is probable that this difference will result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years.
How is deferred tax asset journal entry recorded?
Deferred tax asset is recorded as an asset on the balance sheet and is recognized as a reduction in income tax expense in the income statement.
What is the difference between deferred tax asset and deferred tax liability?
A deferred tax asset arises when the tax payable in future years is expected to be less than the tax paid in the current year, while a deferred tax liability arises when the tax payable in future years is expected to be more than the tax paid in the current year.
How is deferred tax asset calculated?
Deferred tax asset is calculated by multiplying the temporary difference between the carrying amount and the tax base of an asset or liability by the applicable tax rate.
What are the factors that affect the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities?
The recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities is affected by various factors, such as changes in tax laws, changes in the expected timing of future taxable or deductible amounts, and changes in the expected profitability of the entity.
What is the impact of reversal of deferred tax asset on financial statements?
The reversal of deferred tax asset results in an increase in income tax expense in the income statement and a decrease in the deferred tax asset on the balance sheet.


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