How does an increase in depreciation affect the balance sheet?

An increase in depreciation reduces net fixed assets on the balance sheet. Depreciation is an accounting method used to allocate the cost of a tangible asset over its useful life. When depreciation expense is recorded, it reduces the book value of fixed assets, such as machinery or equipment, which ultimately reduces net fixed assets on the balance sheet. This reflects the consumption of the asset's value over time, portraying a more accurate picture of the company's financial position.

In accounting, as fixed assets are depreciated, their carrying value decreases, thus resulting in a lower net fixed asset figure displayed in the assets section of the balance sheet. Since fixed assets are recorded on the balance sheet at historical cost minus accumulated depreciation, increasing depreciation would lead to a higher accumulated depreciation balance, which directly results in a decline in the net value of fixed assets.