Sum of the years digits depreciation calculator
An accelerated method gentler than double declining that always ends exactly at salvage value.
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How to use it
- Enter asset cost, salvage value and useful life.
- The result appears straight away and updates as you edit.
- Copy the result, or copy a link that keeps the same values to share it.
How it is calculated
Sum of years = n × (n + 1) ÷ 2. Year k depreciation = (cost − salvage) × (n − k + 1) ÷ sum of years.
Example
Inputs: Asset cost = 15,000, Salvage value = 0, Useful life = 5 years. Result: First-year depreciation: 5,000.00; Sum of the years digits: 15; Last-year depreciation: 1,000.00.
Limits and caveats
- Uses full years and does not prorate the first year by purchase date.
- Some tax systems do not accept this method, so check local rules.
Questions about this tool
What is the sum of the years for a 5-year asset?
1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 = 15, so year one takes 5/15 of the depreciable amount and the last year 1/15.
Does it match the Excel SYD function?
Yes, it uses the same formula for each year.
When should I pick this method?
When the asset gives more of its benefit early and you want a milder speed-up than double declining.