ACCA Taxation (F6) Practice Exam

What is the main benefit of a short life asset pool?

1. Higher depreciation rates

2. Trader obtains balancing adjustment on sale if proceeds are more than TWDV

3. Trader obtains balancing adjustment on sale if proceeds are less than TWDV

4. Lower initial cost of capital allowances

The correct answer is: Trader obtains balancing adjustment on sale if proceeds are less than TWDV

The main benefit of a short life asset pool is that it allows for a balancing adjustment on sale if the proceeds from the sale are less than the tax written down value (TWDV) of the asset. This balancing adjustment is significant because it can offset taxable profits, leading to potential tax savings. When an asset within a short life asset pool is disposed of, if the sale proceeds are below the TWDV, the trader can make a claim for an additional deduction, which reduces the taxable income. This mechanism is beneficial for managing tax liabilities and encourages investment in assets that may have a shorter lifespan, as it allows for more tax-efficient asset management. The other options do not reflect the key benefit of short life asset pools. A higher depreciation rate may apply in different contexts but does not specifically highlight the balancing adjustment aspect. The mention of balancing adjustments for proceeds exceeding TWDV focuses on other asset pools, typically leading to potential taxable profit rather than relief. Finally, lower initial costs of capital allowances are not inherently a main feature connected to the short life asset pool but rather a general characteristic of capital allowances across various asset types.