Capitalization

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subhendu mishra (Querist)
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22 August 2014 We purchase car 21st Feb Thereafter we bullet proofing the car on 31st march.it value is 3800000 can we capitalize it book as expense please advice

CMA. CS. Sanjay Gupta

CMA. CS. Sanjay Gupta (Expert)
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22 August 2014 Expenses on making the Car bulletproof should be capitalized along with the Cost of the Car.

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subhendu mishra

subhendu mishra (Querist)
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22 August 2014 Sir,
Please give me detail ground because our auditor advice to booked it as expense

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Asha Kanta Sharma

Asha Kanta Sharma

(Expert)
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18 July 2024 Whether to capitalize or expense the cost of bulletproofing a car depends on whether it enhances the car's existing capabilities significantly or extends its useful life beyond its original condition. Here’s how you can approach this decision:

### Capitalization vs. Expense:

1. **Enhancement of Capabilities**:
- If bulletproofing significantly enhances the car's functionality or extends its useful life (e.g., improves safety to a degree that it transforms the car's use), then it should be capitalized.

2. **Maintaining Existing Condition**:
- If bulletproofing merely maintains the car's existing condition or is considered a repair to ensure normal operation without extending its life or significantly enhancing its capabilities, it should be expensed.

### Specific Considerations:

- **Purpose of Bulletproofing**: Determine if bulletproofing was done for security reasons or if it significantly altered the vehicle's performance or utility.

- **Professional Judgment**: Seek the opinion of an automotive engineer or a qualified professional to assess whether the bulletproofing enhances the car’s capabilities beyond its original design.

- **Auditor’s Guidance**: Consider the rationale provided by your auditor. They may advise expensing if they determine that the bulletproofing does not meet the criteria for capitalization under accounting standards.

### Accounting Treatment:

- **Capitalization**: If deemed necessary, capitalize the cost under a suitable asset category, such as "Vehicle Enhancements" or "Special Installations", and amortize it over the expected useful life of the enhancement.

- **Expense**: If it is determined that the bulletproofing does not qualify as a capital improvement, expense the cost immediately as incurred.

### Conclusion:

Given the complexity and specific nature of bulletproofing a vehicle, it’s crucial to assess whether the expenditure meets the criteria for capitalization under accounting principles. Engaging with your auditor and possibly seeking a professional opinion can provide clarity on the appropriate accounting treatment. This approach ensures compliance with accounting standards while accurately reflecting the financial impact of the bulletproofing on your company’s financial statements.