How is depreciation charge classified in financial statements?

Depreciation charge is classified as a debit in financial statements. When an asset is depreciated, the depreciation expense is recorded on the income statement, which reduces the profit for the financial period. This expense is recognized as a debit entry in the accounting records.

Furthermore, this debit entry reflects the cost associated with the use of an asset over time, effectively allocating its value and ensuring the financial statements provide an accurate representation of the entity's financial performance. Additionally, on the balance sheet, accumulated depreciation, which is the cumulative amount of depreciation charged on an asset since its acquisition, is shown as a contra-asset account. This reduces the book value of the asset, thereby confirming the nature of depreciation as a reduction in value represented through debit entries.

Thus, understanding depreciation as a debit helps maintain clarity in financial reporting and ensures that the matching principle—where expenses are matched against revenues—is properly applied.