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Does Goodwill Get Amortized?

Published in Goodwill Accounting 3 mins read

No, goodwill does not get amortized. Unlike many other assets that have a discernible useful life over which their value is systematically reduced, goodwill is treated differently in accounting.

Amortization vs. Impairment

Amortization is the process of expensing the cost of an intangible asset over its useful life. This method is applied to intangible assets that have a finite and determinable lifespan, such as patents, copyrights, or software licenses.

Goodwill, however, is considered to have an indefinite useful life because its value is tied to factors like brand reputation, customer loyalty, and market position, which theoretically can last indefinitely or grow over time. Therefore, it isn't amortized or depreciated over a set period.

Instead of amortization, goodwill is subject to an annual impairment test. An impairment occurs when the fair value of an asset is less than its carrying amount on the balance sheet.

Here's a breakdown of the key differences:

  • Amortization:
    • Applies to intangible assets with a finite useful life.
    • Systematic reduction of asset value over time.
    • Predictable and regular expense.
    • Examples: Patents, copyrights, software.
  • Impairment:
    • Applies to intangible assets with an indefinite useful life (like goodwill).
    • Occurs when an asset's value significantly declines below its book value.
    • Not a regular expense; it's a one-time write-down when triggered.
    • Examples: Goodwill, certain trademarks.

How Goodwill Is Accounted For

Goodwill typically arises in a business acquisition when the purchase price of a company exceeds the fair value of its identifiable net tangible and intangible assets. It represents the non-physical assets of a business, such as its brand reputation, customer base, strong management team, or proprietary technology.

Because goodwill is not amortized, its value remains on the balance sheet until it is deemed impaired. Companies must regularly assess the value of goodwill, usually annually or whenever there's an event indicating a potential decline in value (e.g., significant drop in market share, new competition, or adverse economic conditions).

If the fair value of the reporting unit (the business segment to which the goodwill is assigned) falls below its carrying value, an impairment loss is recognized. This loss reduces the goodwill on the balance sheet and is recorded as an expense on the income statement, which can significantly impact a company's profitability.

Intangible Assets and Their Accounting Treatment

The accounting treatment of intangible assets varies based on whether they have a finite or indefinite useful life.

Intangible Asset Type Useful Life Accounting Treatment
Goodwill Indefinite Not amortized; subject to impairment testing
Trademarks Indefinite Not amortized; subject to impairment testing
Patents Finite Amortized over its legal or economic life
Copyrights Finite Amortized over its legal or economic life
Software Licenses Finite Amortized over the license term
Customer Lists Finite (often) Amortized over estimated benefit period

For more detailed information on goodwill and accounting principles, you can refer to reputable financial resources like Investopedia.