Depreciation · ATO lookup

ATO Effective Life Calculator Australia

Find the Commissioner’s effective life for common depreciating assets, then compare first-year prime cost and diminishing value deductions for 2026-27.

2025 determinationCommon Table B assetsFirst-year comparison

Curated from Table B of the 2025 ATO effective-life determination.

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Awaiting input

Select an asset to see its effective life and compare first-year methods.

Use the match, not just the nearest label

1. Check Table A

Industry-specific assets can have a different effective life and take priority.

2. Match the function

The official wording and the job the asset performs matter more than a broad product name.

3. Apply tax use

Only the taxable-use share is deductible; private use must be excluded.

Prime cost vs diminishing value

Prime cost spreads decline using 100% ÷ effective life. Diminishing value generally brings deductions forward using 200% ÷ effective life for eligible assets first held on or after 10 May 2006. Both are apportioned for days held and taxable use.

Need a multi-year schedule, Division 43 capital works or low-value pool treatment? Continue to the full depreciation calculator.

Frequently asked questions

What is an asset’s effective life?
It is the period an asset can be used by any entity for a taxable purpose, considering wear and tear, maintenance and likely obsolescence. You can generally use the Commissioner’s determination or self-assess.
Do industry-specific effective lives override this lookup?
Yes. This lookup curates common Table B entries. If a Table A industry-specific entry applies to the asset in your industry, use that entry instead.
Which depreciation method gives the bigger first-year deduction?
Diminishing value commonly gives a larger early deduction because its rate is 200% divided by effective life. Prime cost uses 100% divided by effective life. Eligibility and method-choice rules still apply.

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Tax Accuracy & Sources

Reviewed: March 2026 · Tax year: 2026-27

This calculator is an estimate tool and may not cover all personal circumstances. For state-based taxes, confirm details with your state or territory revenue office.