IAS 12

International Accounting Standard 12

Income Taxes
This version includes amendments resulting from IFRSs issued up to 31 December 2008.
IAS 12 Income Taxes was issued by the International Accounting Standards Committee (IASC) in October 1996. It
replaced IAS 12 Accounting for Taxes on Income (issued in July 1979).
In May 1999 paragraph 88 was amended by IAS 10 Events After the Balance Sheet and in April 2000 further amendments
were made as a consequence of IAS 40 Investment Property. In October 2000 IASC approved revisions to specify the
accounting treatment for income tax consequences of dividends.
In April 2001 the International Accounting Standards Board resolved that all Standards and Interpretations issued under
previous Constitutions continued to be applicable unless and until they were amended or withdrawn.
Since then, IAS 12 and its accompanying guidance have been amended by the following IFRSs:
• IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements (as revised in December 2003)
• IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors (issued December 2003)
• IAS 21 The Effects of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates (as revised in December 2003)
• IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement (as revised in December 2003)
• IFRS 2 Share-based Payment (issued February 2004)
• IFRS 3 Business Combinations (issued March 2004)
• IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements (as revised in September 2007) 1
• IFRS 3 Business Combinations (as revised in January 2008). 2
The following Interpretations refer to IAS 12:
• SIC-21 Income Taxes—Recovery of Revalued Non-Depreciable Assets (issued July 2000 and subsequently
amended)
• SIC-25 Income Taxes—Changes in the Tax Status of an Entity or its Shareholders (issued July 2000 and
subsequently amended)
• IFRIC 7 Applying the Restatement Approach under IAS 29 Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies
(issued November 2005 and subsequently amended).

1
effective date 1 January 2009
2
effective date 1 July 2009

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CONTENTS
paragraphs
INTRODUCTION IN1–IN14
INTERNATIONAL ACCOUNTING STANDARD 12
INCOME TAXES
OBJECTIVE
SCOPE 1–4
DEFINITIONS 5–11
Tax base 7–11
RECOGNITION OF CURRENT TAX LIABILITIES AND CURRENT TAX ASSETS 12–14
RECOGNITION OF DEFERRED TAX LIABILITIES AND DEFERRED TAX ASSETS 15–45
Taxable temporary differences 15–23
Business combinations 19
Assets carried at fair value 20
Goodwill 21–21B
Initial recognition of an asset or liability 22–23
Deductible temporary differences 24–33
Goodwill 32A
Initial recognition of an asset or liability 33
Unused tax losses and unused tax credits 34–36
Reassessment of unrecognised deferred tax assets 37
Investments in subsidiaries, branches and associates and interests in joint ventures 38–45
MEASUREMENT 46–56
RECOGNITION OF CURRENT AND DEFERRED TAX 57–68C
Items recognised in profit or loss 58–60
Items recognised outside profit or loss 61A–65A
Deferred tax arising from a business combination 66–68
Current and deferred tax arising from share-based payment transactions 68A–68C
PRESENTATION 71–78
Tax assets and tax liabilities 71–76
Offset 71–76
Tax expense 77–78
Tax expense (income) related to profit or loss from ordinary activities 77
Exchange differences on deferred foreign tax liabilities or assets 78
DISCLOSURE 79–88
EFFECTIVE DATE 89–95
APPENDICES
A Examples of temporary differences
B Illustrative computations and presentation

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International Accounting Standard 12 Income Taxes (IAS 12) is set out in paragraphs 1–95. All the paragraphs have equal
authority but retain the IASC format of the Standard when it was adopted by the IASB. IAS 12 should be read in the
context of its objective, the Preface to International Financial Reporting Standards and the Framework for the
Preparation and Presentation of Financial Statements. IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and
Errors provides a basis for selecting and applying accounting policies in the absence of explicit guidance.

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Introduction
IN1 This Standard (‘IAS 12 (revised)’) replaces IAS 12 Accounting for Taxes on Income (‘the original IAS 12’). IAS
12 (revised) is effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 1998. The major changes from
the original IAS 12 are as follows.
IN2 The original IAS 12 required an entity to account for deferred tax using either the deferral method or a liability
method which is sometimes known as the income statement liability method. IAS 12 (revised) prohibits the
deferral method and requires another liability method which is sometimes known as the balance sheet liability
method.
The income statement liability method focuses on timing differences, whereas the balance sheet liability method
focuses on temporary differences. Timing differences are differences between taxable profit and accounting
profit that originate in one period and reverse in one or more subsequent periods. Temporary differences are
differences between the tax base of an asset or liability and its carrying amount in the statement of financial
position. The tax base of an asset or liability is the amount attributed to that asset or liability for tax purposes.
All timing differences are temporary differences. Temporary differences also arise in the following
circumstances, which do not give rise to timing differences, although the original IAS 12 treated them in the
same way as transactions that do give rise to timing differences:
(a) subsidiaries, associates or joint ventures have not distributed their entire profits to the parent or
investor;
(b) assets are revalued and no equivalent adjustment is made for tax purposes; and
(c) the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination are generally
recognised at their fair values in accordance with IFRS 3 Business Combinations, but no equivalent
adjustment is made for tax purposes.
Furthermore, there are some temporary differences which are not timing differences, for example those
temporary differences that arise when:
(a) the non-monetary assets and liabilities of an entity are measured in its functional currency but the
taxable profit or tax loss (and, hence, the tax base of its non-monetary assets and liabilities) is
determined in a different currency;
(b) non-monetary assets and liabilities are restated under IAS 29 Financial Reporting in
Hyperinflationary Economies; or
(c) the carrying amount of an asset or liability on initial recognition differs from its initial tax base.
IN3 The original IAS 12 permitted an entity not to recognise deferred tax assets and liabilities where there was
reasonable evidence that timing differences would not reverse for some considerable period ahead. IAS 12
(revised) requires an entity to recognise a deferred tax liability or (subject to certain conditions) asset for all
temporary differences, with certain exceptions noted below.
IN4 The original IAS 12 required that:
(a) deferred tax assets arising from timing differences should be recognised when there was a reasonable
expectation of realisation; and
(b) deferred tax assets arising from tax losses should be recognised as an asset only where there was
assurance beyond any reasonable doubt that future taxable income would be sufficient to allow the
benefit of the loss to be realised. The original IAS 12 permitted (but did not require) an entity to defer
recognition of the benefit of tax losses until the period of realisation.
IAS 12 (revised) requires that deferred tax assets should be recognised when it is probable that taxable profits
will be available against which the deferred tax asset can be utilised. Where an entity has a history of tax losses,
the entity recognises a deferred tax asset only to the extent that the entity has sufficient taxable temporary
differences or there is convincing other evidence that sufficient taxable profit will be available.
IN5 As an exception to the general requirement set out in paragraph IN3 above, IAS 12 (revised) prohibits the
recognition of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets arising from certain assets or liabilities whose
carrying amount differs on initial recognition from their initial tax base. Because such circumstances do not give
rise to timing differences, they did not result in deferred tax assets or liabilities under the original IAS 12.
IN6 The original IAS 12 required that taxes payable on undistributed profits of subsidiaries and associates should be
recognised unless it was reasonable to assume that those profits will not be distributed or that a distribution

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would not give rise to a tax liability. However, IAS 12 (revised) prohibits the recognition of such deferred tax
liabilities (and those arising from any related cumulative translation adjustment) to the extent that:
(a) the parent, investor or venturer is able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary
difference; and
(b) it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.
Where this prohibition has the result that no deferred tax liabilities have been recognised, IAS 12 (revised)
requires an entity to disclose the aggregate amount of the temporary differences concerned.
IN7 The original IAS 12 did not refer explicitly to fair value adjustments made on a business combination. Such
adjustments give rise to temporary differences and IAS 12 (revised) requires an entity to recognise the resulting
deferred tax liability or (subject to the probability criterion for recognition) deferred tax asset with a
corresponding effect on the determination of the amount of goodwill or bargain purchase gain recognised.
However, IAS 12 (revised) prohibits the recognition of deferred tax liabilities arising from the initial recognition
of goodwill.
IN8 The original IAS 12 permitted, but did not require, an entity to recognise a deferred tax liability in respect of
asset revaluations. IAS 12 (revised) requires an entity to recognise a deferred tax liability in respect of asset
revaluations.
IN9 The tax consequences of recovering the carrying amount of certain assets or liabilities may depend on the
manner of recovery or settlement, for example:
(a) in certain countries, capital gains are not taxed at the same rate as other taxable income; and
(b) in some countries, the amount that is deducted for tax purposes on sale of an asset is greater than the
amount that may be deducted as depreciation.
The original IAS 12 gave no guidance on the measurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities in such cases.
IAS 12 (revised) requires that the measurement of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets should be based
on the tax consequences that would follow from the manner in which the entity expects to recover or settle the
carrying amount of its assets and liabilities.
IN10 The original IAS 12 did not state explicitly whether deferred tax assets and liabilities may be discounted. IAS 12
(revised) prohibits discounting of deferred tax assets and liabilities.
IN11 The original IAS 12 did not specify whether an entity should classify deferred tax balances as current assets and
liabilities or as non-current assets and liabilities. IAS 12 (revised) requires that an entity which makes the
current/non-current distinction should not classify deferred tax assets and liabilities as current assets and
liabilities. *
IN12 The original IAS 12 stated that debit and credit balances representing deferred taxes may be offset. IAS 12
(revised) establishes more restrictive conditions on offsetting, based largely on those for financial assets and
liabilities in IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Disclosure and Presentation. †
IN13 The original IAS 12 required disclosure of an explanation of the relationship between tax expense and
accounting profit if not explained by the tax rates effective in the reporting entity’s country. IAS 12 (revised)
requires this explanation to take either or both of the following forms:
(a) a numerical reconciliation between tax expense (income) and the product of accounting profit
multiplied by the applicable tax rate(s); or
(b) a numerical reconciliation between the average effective tax rate and the applicable tax rate.
IAS 12 (revised) also requires an explanation of changes in the applicable tax rate(s) compared to the previous
accounting period.
IN14 New disclosures required by IAS 12 (revised) include:
(a) in respect of each type of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits:
(i) the amount of deferred tax assets and liabilities recognised; and
(ii) the amount of the deferred tax income or expense recognised in profit or loss, if this is not
apparent from the changes in the amounts recognised in the statement of financial position;
(b) in respect of discontinued operations, the tax expense relating to:
(i) the gain or loss on discontinuance; and

*
This requirement has been moved to paragraph 56 of IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements (as revised in 2007).
†
In 2005 the IASB amended IAS 32 as Financial Instruments: Presentation.

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(ii) the profit or loss from the ordinary activities of the discontinued operation; and
(c) the amount of a deferred tax asset and the nature of the evidence supporting its recognition, when:
(i) the utilisation of the deferred tax asset is dependent on future taxable profits in excess of the
profits arising from the reversal of existing taxable temporary differences; and
(ii) the entity has suffered a loss in either the current or preceding period in the tax jurisdiction
to which the deferred tax asset relates.

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International Accounting Standard 12

Income Taxes

Objective

The objective of this Standard is to prescribe the accounting treatment for income taxes. The principal issue
in accounting for income taxes is how to account for the current and future tax consequences of:
(a) the future recovery (settlement) of the carrying amount of assets (liabilities) that are recognised in
an entity’s statement of financial position; and
(b) transactions and other events of the current period that are recognised in an entity’s financial
statements.

It is inherent in the recognition of an asset or liability that the reporting entity expects to recover or settle the
carrying amount of that asset or liability. If it is probable that recovery or settlement of that carrying amount
will make future tax payments larger (smaller) than they would be if such recovery or settlement were to
have no tax consequences, this Standard requires an entity to recognise a deferred tax liability (deferred tax
asset), with certain limited exceptions.

This Standard requires an entity to account for the tax consequences of transactions and other events in the
same way that it accounts for the transactions and other events themselves. Thus, for transactions and other
events recognised in profit or loss, any related tax effects are also recognised in profit or loss. For
transactions and other events recognised outside profit or loss (either in other comprehensive income or
directly in equity), any related tax effects are also recognised outside profit or loss (either in other
comprehensive income or directly in equity, respectively). Similarly, the recognition of deferred tax assets
and liabilities in a business combination affects the amount of goodwill arising in that business combination
or the amount of the bargain purchase gain recognised.

This Standard also deals with the recognition of deferred tax assets arising from unused tax losses or unused
tax credits, the presentation of income taxes in the financial statements and the disclosure of information
relating to income taxes.

Scope
1 This Standard shall be applied in accounting for income taxes.
2 For the purposes of this Standard, income taxes include all domestic and foreign taxes which are based on
taxable profits. Income taxes also include taxes, such as withholding taxes, which are payable by a subsidiary,
associate or joint venture on distributions to the reporting entity.
3 [Deleted]
4 This Standard does not deal with the methods of accounting for government grants (see IAS 20 Accounting for
Government Grants and Disclosure of Government Assistance) or investment tax credits. However, this
Standard does deal with the accounting for temporary differences that may arise from such grants or investment
tax credits.

Definitions
5 The following terms are used in this Standard with the meanings specified:
Accounting profit is profit or loss for a period before deducting tax expense.
Taxable profit (tax loss) is the profit (loss) for a period, determined in accordance with the rules
established by the taxation authorities, upon which income taxes are payable (recoverable).
Tax expense (tax income) is the aggregate amount included in the determination of profit or loss for the
period in respect of current tax and deferred tax.

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Current tax is the amount of income taxes payable (recoverable) in respect of the taxable profit (tax loss)
for a period.
Deferred tax liabilities are the amounts of income taxes payable in future periods in respect of taxable
temporary differences.
Deferred tax assets are the amounts of income taxes recoverable in future periods in respect of:
(a) deductible temporary differences;
(b) the carryforward of unused tax losses; and
(c) the carryforward of unused tax credits.
Temporary differences are differences between the carrying amount of an asset or liability in the
statement of financial position and its tax base. Temporary differences may be either:
(a) taxable temporary differences, which are temporary differences that will result in taxable
amounts in determining taxable profit (tax loss) of future periods when the carrying amount of
the asset or liability is recovered or settled; or
(b) deductible temporary differences, which are temporary differences that will result in amounts
that are deductible in determining taxable profit (tax loss) of future periods when the carrying
amount of the asset or liability is recovered or settled.
The tax base of an asset or liability is the amount attributed to that asset or liability for tax purposes.
6 Tax expense (tax income) comprises current tax expense (current tax income) and deferred tax expense
(deferred tax income).

Tax base
7 The tax base of an asset is the amount that will be deductible for tax purposes against any taxable economic
benefits that will flow to an entity when it recovers the carrying amount of the asset. If those economic benefits
will not be taxable, the tax base of the asset is equal to its carrying amount.

Examples

1 A machine cost 100. For tax purposes, depreciation of 30 has already been deducted in the current and
prior periods and the remaining cost will be deductible in future periods, either as depreciation or
through a deduction on disposal. Revenue generated by using the machine is taxable, any gain on
disposal of the machine will be taxable and any loss on disposal will be deductible for tax purposes.
The tax base of the machine is 70.

2 Interest receivable has a carrying amount of 100. The related interest revenue will be taxed on a cash
basis. The tax base of the interest receivable is nil.

3 Trade receivables have a carrying amount of 100. The related revenue has already been included in
taxable profit (tax loss). The tax base of the trade receivables is 100.

4 Dividends receivable from a subsidiary have a carrying amount of 100. The dividends are not taxable.
In substance, the entire carrying amount of the asset is deductible against the economic benefits.
Consequently, the tax base of the dividends receivable is 100.
a

5 A loan receivable has a carrying amount of 100. The repayment of the loan will have no tax
consequences. The tax base of the loan is 100.

a Under this analysis, there is no taxable temporary difference. An alternative analysis is that the accrued dividends receivable
have a tax base of nil and that a tax rate of nil is applied to the resulting taxable temporary difference of 100. Under both
analyses, there is no deferred tax liability.

8 The tax base of a liability is its carrying amount, less any amount that will be deductible for tax purposes in
respect of that liability in future periods. In the case of revenue which is received in advance, the tax base of the
resulting liability is its carrying amount, less any amount of the revenue that will not be taxable in future
periods.

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Examples

1 Current liabilities include accrued expenses with a carrying amount of 100. The related expense will
be deducted for tax purposes on a cash basis. The tax base of the accrued expenses is nil.

2 Current liabilities include interest revenue received in advance, with a carrying amount of 100. The
related interest revenue was taxed on a cash basis. The tax base of the interest received in advance is
nil.

3 Current liabilities include accrued expenses with a carrying amount of 100. The related expense has
already been deducted for tax purposes. The tax base of the accrued expenses is 100.

4 Current liabilities include accrued fines and penalties with a carrying amount of 100. Fines and
penalties are not deductible for tax purposes. The tax base of the accrued fines and penalties is 100.
a

5 A loan payable has a carrying amount of 100. The repayment of the loan will have no tax
consequences. The tax base of the loan is 100.

a Under this analysis, there is no deductible temporary difference. An alternative analysis is that the accrued fines and penalties
payable have a tax base of nil and that a tax rate of nil is applied to the resulting deductible temporary difference of 100. Under
both analyses, there is no deferred tax asset.

9 Some items have a tax base but are not recognised as assets and liabilities in the statement of financial position.
For example, research costs are recognised as an expense in determining accounting profit in the period in
which they are incurred but may not be permitted as a deduction in determining taxable profit (tax loss) until a
later period. The difference between the tax base of the research costs, being the amount the taxation authorities
will permit as a deduction in future periods, and the carrying amount of nil is a deductible temporary difference
that results in a deferred tax asset.
10 Where the tax base of an asset or liability is not immediately apparent, it is helpful to consider the fundamental
principle upon which this Standard is based: that an entity shall, with certain limited exceptions, recognise a
deferred tax liability (asset) whenever recovery or settlement of the carrying amount of an asset or liability
would make future tax payments larger (smaller) than they would be if such recovery or settlement were to have
no tax consequences. Example C following paragraph 52 illustrates circumstances when it may be helpful to
consider this fundamental principle, for example, when the tax base of an asset or liability depends on the
expected manner of recovery or settlement.
11 In consolidated financial statements, temporary differences are determined by comparing the carrying amounts
of assets and liabilities in the consolidated financial statements with the appropriate tax base. The tax base is
determined by reference to a consolidated tax return in those jurisdictions in which such a return is filed. In
other jurisdictions, the tax base is determined by reference to the tax returns of each entity in the group.

Recognition of current tax liabilities and current tax assets

12 Current tax for current and prior periods shall, to the extent unpaid, be recognised as a liability. If the
amount already paid in respect of current and prior periods exceeds the amount due for those periods,
the excess shall be recognised as an asset.
13 The benefit relating to a tax loss that can be carried back to recover current tax of a previous period shall
be recognised as an asset.
14 When a tax loss is used to recover current tax of a previous period, an entity recognises the benefit as an asset in
the period in which the tax loss occurs because it is probable that the benefit will flow to the entity and the
benefit can be reliably measured.

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Recognition of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets

Taxable temporary differences

15 A deferred tax liability shall be recognised for all taxable temporary differences, except to the extent that
the deferred tax liability arises from:
(a) the initial recognition of goodwill; or
(b) the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction which:
(i) is not a business combination; and
(ii) at the time of the transaction, affects neither accounting profit nor taxable profit (tax
loss).
However, for taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, branches and
associates, and interests in joint ventures, a deferred tax liability shall be recognised in accordance with
paragraph 39.
16 It is inherent in the recognition of an asset that its carrying amount will be recovered in the form of economic
benefits that flow to the entity in future periods. When the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its tax base, the
amount of taxable economic benefits will exceed the amount that will be allowed as a deduction for tax
purposes. This difference is a taxable temporary difference and the obligation to pay the resulting income taxes
in future periods is a deferred tax liability. As the entity recovers the carrying amount of the asset, the taxable
temporary difference will reverse and the entity will have taxable profit. This makes it probable that economic
benefits will flow from the entity in the form of tax payments. Therefore, this Standard requires the recognition
of all deferred tax liabilities, except in certain circumstances described in paragraphs 15 and 39.

Example

An asset which cost 150 has a carrying amount of 100. Cumulative depreciation for tax purposes is 90 and the
tax rate is 25%.
The tax base of the asset is 60 (cost of 150 less cumulative tax depreciation of 90). To recover the carrying
amount of 100, the entity must earn taxable income of 100, but will only be able to deduct tax depreciation of
60. Consequently, the entity will pay income taxes of 10 (40 at 25%) when it recovers the carrying amount of
the asset. The difference between the carrying amount of 100 and the tax base of 60 is a taxable temporary
difference of 40. Therefore, the entity recognises a deferred tax liability of 10 (40 at 25%) representing the
income taxes that it will pay when it recovers the carrying amount of the asset.

17 Some temporary differences arise when income or expense is included in accounting profit in one period but is
included in taxable profit in a different period. Such temporary differences are often described as timing
differences. The following are examples of temporary differences of this kind which are taxable temporary
differences and which therefore result in deferred tax liabilities:
(a) interest revenue is included in accounting profit on a time proportion basis but may, in some
jurisdictions, be included in taxable profit when cash is collected. The tax base of any receivable
recognised in the statement of financial position with respect to such revenues is nil because the
revenues do not affect taxable profit until cash is collected;
(b) depreciation used in determining taxable profit (tax loss) may differ from that used in determining
accounting profit. The temporary difference is the difference between the carrying amount of the asset
and its tax base which is the original cost of the asset less all deductions in respect of that asset
permitted by the taxation authorities in determining taxable profit of the current and prior periods. A
taxable temporary difference arises, and results in a deferred tax liability, when tax depreciation is
accelerated (if tax depreciation is less rapid than accounting depreciation, a deductible temporary
difference arises, and results in a deferred tax asset); and
(c) development costs may be capitalised and amortised over future periods in determining accounting
profit but deducted in determining taxable profit in the period in which they are incurred. Such
development costs have a tax base of nil as they have already been deducted from taxable profit. The
temporary difference is the difference between the carrying amount of the development costs and their
tax base of nil.

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18 Temporary differences also arise when:

(a) the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination are recognised at
their fair values in accordance with IFRS 3 Business Combinations, but no equivalent adjustment is
made for tax purposes (see paragraph 19);
(b) assets are revalued and no equivalent adjustment is made for tax purposes (see paragraph 20);
(c) goodwill arises in a business combination (see paragraph 21);
(d) the tax base of an asset or liability on initial recognition differs from its initial carrying amount, for
example when an entity benefits from non-taxable government grants related to assets (see paragraphs
22 and 33); or
(e) the carrying amount of investments in subsidiaries, branches and associates or interests in joint
ventures becomes different from the tax base of the investment or interest (see paragraphs 38–45).

Business combinations
19 With limited exceptions, the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination are
recognised at their fair values at the acquisition date. Temporary differences arise when the tax bases of the
identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed are not affected by the business combination or are affected
differently. For example, when the carrying amount of an asset is increased to fair value but the tax base of the
asset remains at cost to the previous owner, a taxable temporary difference arises which results in a deferred tax
liability. The resulting deferred tax liability affects goodwill (see paragraph 66).

Assets carried at fair value

20 IFRSs permit or require certain assets to be carried at fair value or to be revalued (see, for example, IAS 16
Property, Plant and Equipment, IAS 38 Intangible Assets, IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and
Measurement and IAS 40 Investment Property). In some jurisdictions, the revaluation or other restatement of an
asset to fair value affects taxable profit (tax loss) for the current period. As a result, the tax base of the asset is
adjusted and no temporary difference arises. In other jurisdictions, the revaluation or restatement of an asset
does not affect taxable profit in the period of the revaluation or restatement and, consequently, the tax base of
the asset is not adjusted. Nevertheless, the future recovery of the carrying amount will result in a taxable flow of
economic benefits to the entity and the amount that will be deductible for tax purposes will differ from the
amount of those economic benefits. The difference between the carrying amount of a revalued asset and its tax
base is a temporary difference and gives rise to a deferred tax liability or asset. This is true even if:
(a) the entity does not intend to dispose of the asset. In such cases, the revalued carrying amount of the
asset will be recovered through use and this will generate taxable income which exceeds the
depreciation that will be allowable for tax purposes in future periods; or
(b) tax on capital gains is deferred if the proceeds of the disposal of the asset are invested in similar
assets. In such cases, the tax will ultimately become payable on sale or use of the similar assets.

Goodwill
21 Goodwill arising in a business combination is measured as the excess of (a) over (b) below:
(a) the aggregate of:
(i) the consideration transferred measured in accordance with IFRS 3, which generally requires
acquisition-date fair value;
(ii) the amount of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree recognised in accordance with
IFRS 3; and
(iii) in a business combination achieved in stages, the acquisition-date fair value of the
acquirer’s previously held equity interest in the acquiree.
(b) the net of the acquisition-date amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed
measured in accordance with IFRS 3.
taxable profit. Moreover, in such jurisdictions, the cost of goodwill is often not deductible when a subsidiary
disposes of its underlying business. In such jurisdictions, goodwill has a tax base of nil. Any difference between
the carrying amount of goodwill and its tax base of nil is a taxable temporary difference. However, this Standard
does not permit the recognition of the resulting deferred tax liability because goodwill is measured as a residual
and the recognition of the deferred tax liability would increase the carrying amount of goodwill.

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21A Subsequent reductions in a deferred tax liability that is unrecognised because it arises from the initial
recognition of goodwill are also regarded as arising from the initial recognition of goodwill and are therefore not
recognised under paragraph 15(a). For example, if in a business combination an entity recognises goodwill of
CU100 that has a tax base of nil, paragraph 15(a) prohibits the entity from recognising the resulting deferred tax
liability. If the entity subsequently recognises an impairment loss of CU20 for that goodwill, the amount of the
taxable temporary difference relating to the goodwill is reduced from CU100 to CU80, with a resulting decrease
in the value of the unrecognised deferred tax liability. That decrease in the value of the unrecognised deferred
tax liability is also regarded as relating to the initial recognition of the goodwill and is therefore prohibited from
being recognised under paragraph 15(a).
21B Deferred tax liabilities for taxable temporary differences relating to goodwill are, however, recognised to the
extent they do not arise from the initial recognition of goodwill. For example, if in a business combination an
entity recognises goodwill of CU100 that is deductible for tax purposes at a rate of 20 per cent per year starting
in the year of acquisition, the tax base of the goodwill is CU100 on initial recognition and CU80 at the end of
the year of acquisition. If the carrying amount of goodwill at the end of the year of acquisition remains
unchanged at CU100, a taxable temporary difference of CU20 arises at the end of that year. Because that taxable
temporary difference does not relate to the initial recognition of the goodwill, the resulting deferred tax liability
is recognised.

Initial recognition of an asset or liability

22 A temporary difference may arise on initial recognition of an asset or liability, for example if part or all of the
cost of an asset will not be deductible for tax purposes. The method of accounting for such a temporary
difference depends on the nature of the transaction that led to the initial recognition of the asset or liability:
(a) in a business combination, an entity recognises any deferred tax liability or asset and this affects the
amount of goodwill or bargain purchase gain it recognises (see paragraph 19);
(b) if the transaction affects either accounting profit or taxable profit, an entity recognises any deferred
tax liability or asset and recognises the resulting deferred tax expense or income in profit or loss (see
paragraph 59);
(c) if the transaction is not a business combination, and affects neither accounting profit nor taxable
profit, an entity would, in the absence of the exemption provided by paragraphs 15 and 24, recognise
the resulting deferred tax liability or asset and adjust the carrying amount of the asset or liability by
the same amount. Such adjustments would make the financial statements less transparent. Therefore,
this Standard does not permit an entity to recognise the resulting deferred tax liability or asset, either
on initial recognition or subsequently (see example below). Furthermore, an entity does not recognise
subsequent changes in the unrecognised deferred tax liability or asset as the asset is depreciated.

Example illustrating paragraph 22(c)

An entity intends to use an asset which cost 1,000 throughout its useful life of five years and then dispose of it
for a residual value of nil. The tax rate is 40%. Depreciation of the asset is not deductible for tax purposes. On
disposal, any capital gain would not be taxable and any capital loss would not be deductible.
As it recovers the carrying amount of the asset, the entity will earn taxable income of 1,000 and pay tax of
400. The entity does not recognise the resulting deferred tax liability of 400 because it results from the initial
recognition of the asset.
In the following year, the carrying amount of the asset is 800. In earning taxable income of 800, the entity will
pay tax of 320. The entity does not recognise the deferred tax liability of 320 because it results from the initial
recognition of the asset.

23 In accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation the issuer of a compound financial instrument
(for example, a convertible bond) classifies the instrument’s liability component as a liability and the equity
component as equity. In some jurisdictions, the tax base of the liability component on initial recognition is equal
to the initial carrying amount of the sum of the liability and equity components. The resulting taxable temporary
difference arises from the initial recognition of the equity component separately from the liability component.
Therefore, the exception set out in paragraph 15(b) does not apply. Consequently, an entity recognises the
resulting deferred tax liability. In accordance with paragraph 61A, the deferred tax is charged directly to the
carrying amount of the equity component. In accordance with paragraph 58, subsequent changes in the deferred
tax liability are recognised in profit or loss as deferred tax expense (income).

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Deductible temporary differences

24 A deferred tax asset shall be recognised for all deductible temporary differences to the extent that it is
probable that taxable profit will be available against which the deductible temporary difference can be
utilised, unless the deferred tax asset arises from the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a
transaction that:
(a) is not a business combination; and
(b) at the time of the transaction, affects neither accounting profit nor taxable profit (tax loss).
However, for deductible temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, branches and
associates, and interests in joint ventures, a deferred tax asset shall be recognised in accordance with
paragraph 44.
25 It is inherent in the recognition of a liability that the carrying amount will be settled in future periods through an
outflow from the entity of resources embodying economic benefits. When resources flow from the entity, part or
all of their amounts may be deductible in determining taxable profit of a period later than the period in which
the liability is recognised. In such cases, a temporary difference exists between the carrying amount of the
liability and its tax base. Accordingly, a deferred tax asset arises in respect of the income taxes that will be
recoverable in the future periods when that part of the liability is allowed as a deduction in determining taxable
profit. Similarly, if the carrying amount of an asset is less than its tax base, the difference gives rise to a deferred
tax asset in respect of the income taxes that will be recoverable in future periods.

Example

An entity recognises a liability of 100 for accrued product warranty costs. For tax purposes, the product
warranty costs will not be deductible until the entity pays claims. The tax rate is 25%.
The tax base of the liability is nil (carrying amount of 100, less the amount that will be deductible for tax
purposes in respect of that liability in future periods). In settling the liability for its carrying amount, the entity
will reduce its future taxable profit by an amount of 100 and, consequently, reduce its future tax payments by
25 (100 at 25%). The difference between the carrying amount of 100 and the tax base of nil is a deductible
temporary difference of 100. Therefore, the entity recognises a deferred tax asset of 25 (100 at 25%), provided
that it is probable that the entity will earn sufficient taxable profit in future periods to benefit from a reduction
in tax payments.

26 The following are examples of deductible temporary differences that result in deferred tax assets:
(a) retirement benefit costs may be deducted in determining accounting profit as service is provided by
the employee, but deducted in determining taxable profit either when contributions are paid to a fund
by the entity or when retirement benefits are paid by the entity. A temporary difference exists between
the carrying amount of the liability and its tax base; the tax base of the liability is usually nil. Such a
deductible temporary difference results in a deferred tax asset as economic benefits will flow to the
entity in the form of a deduction from taxable profits when contributions or retirement benefits are
paid;
(b) research costs are recognised as an expense in determining accounting profit in the period in which
they are incurred but may not be permitted as a deduction in determining taxable profit (tax loss) until
a later period. The difference between the tax base of the research costs, being the amount the taxation
authorities will permit as a deduction in future periods, and the carrying amount of nil is a deductible
temporary difference that results in a deferred tax asset;
(c) with limited exceptions, an entity recognises the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in
a business combination at their fair values at the acquisition date. When a liability assumed is
recognised at the acquisition date but the related costs are not deducted in determining taxable profits
until a later period, a deductible temporary difference arises which results in a deferred tax asset. A
deferred tax asset also arises when the fair value of an identifiable asset acquired is less than its tax
base. In both cases, the resulting deferred tax asset affects goodwill (see paragraph 66); and
(d) certain assets may be carried at fair value, or may be revalued, without an equivalent adjustment being
made for tax purposes (see paragraph 20). A deductible temporary difference arises if the tax base of
the asset exceeds its carrying amount.
27 The reversal of deductible temporary differences results in deductions in determining taxable profits of future
periods. However, economic benefits in the form of reductions in tax payments will flow to the entity only if it
earns sufficient taxable profits against which the deductions can be offset. Therefore, an entity recognises

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deferred tax assets only when it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which the deductible
temporary differences can be utilised.
28 It is probable that taxable profit will be available against which a deductible temporary difference can be utilised
when there are sufficient taxable temporary differences relating to the same taxation authority and the same
taxable entity which are expected to reverse:
(a) in the same period as the expected reversal of the deductible temporary difference; or
(b) in periods into which a tax loss arising from the deferred tax asset can be carried back or forward.
In such circumstances, the deferred tax asset is recognised in the period in which the deductible temporary
differences arise.
29 When there are insufficient taxable temporary differences relating to the same taxation authority and the same
taxable entity, the deferred tax asset is recognised to the extent that:
(a) it is probable that the entity will have sufficient taxable profit relating to the same taxation authority
and the same taxable entity in the same period as the reversal of the deductible temporary difference
(or in the periods into which a tax loss arising from the deferred tax asset can be carried back or
forward). In evaluating whether it will have sufficient taxable profit in future periods, an entity
ignores taxable amounts arising from deductible temporary differences that are expected to originate
in future periods, because the deferred tax asset arising from these deductible temporary differences
will itself require future taxable profit in order to be utilised; or
(b) tax planning opportunities are available to the entity that will create taxable profit in appropriate
periods.
30 Tax planning opportunities are actions that the entity would take in order to create or increase taxable income in
a particular period before the expiry of a tax loss or tax credit carryforward. For example, in some jurisdictions,
taxable profit may be created or increased by:
(a) electing to have interest income taxed on either a received or receivable basis;
(b) deferring the claim for certain deductions from taxable profit;
(c) selling, and perhaps leasing back, assets that have appreciated but for which the tax base has not been
adjusted to reflect such appreciation; and
(d) selling an asset that generates non-taxable income (such as, in some jurisdictions, a government bond)
in order to purchase another investment that generates taxable income.
Where tax planning opportunities advance taxable profit from a later period to an earlier period, the utilisation
of a tax loss or tax credit carryforward still depends on the existence of future taxable profit from sources other
than future originating temporary differences.
31 When an entity has a history of recent losses, the entity considers the guidance in paragraphs 35 and 36.
32 [Deleted]

Goodwill
32A If the carrying amount of goodwill arising in a business combination is less than its tax base, the difference
gives rise to a deferred tax asset. The deferred tax asset arising from the initial recognition of goodwill shall be
recognised as part of the accounting for a business combination to the extent that it is probable that taxable
profit will be available against which the deductible temporary difference could be utilised.

Initial recognition of an asset or liability

33 One case when a deferred tax asset arises on initial recognition of an asset is when a non-taxable government
grant related to an asset is deducted in arriving at the carrying amount of the asset but, for tax purposes, is not
deducted from the asset’s depreciable amount (in other words its tax base); the carrying amount of the asset is
less than its tax base and this gives rise to a deductible temporary difference. Government grants may also be set
up as deferred income in which case the difference between the deferred income and its tax base of nil is a
deductible temporary difference. Whichever method of presentation an entity adopts, the entity does not
recognise the resulting deferred tax asset, for the reason given in paragraph 22.

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Unused tax losses and unused tax credits

34 A deferred tax asset shall be recognised for the carryforward of unused tax losses and unused tax credits
to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the unused tax
losses and unused tax credits can be utilised.
35 The criteria for recognising deferred tax assets arising from the carryforward of unused tax losses and tax credits
are the same as the criteria for recognising deferred tax assets arising from deductible temporary differences.
However, the existence of unused tax losses is strong evidence that future taxable profit may not be available.
Therefore, when an entity has a history of recent losses, the entity recognises a deferred tax asset arising from
unused tax losses or tax credits only to the extent that the entity has sufficient taxable temporary differences or
there is convincing other evidence that sufficient taxable profit will be available against which the unused tax
losses or unused tax credits can be utilised by the entity. In such circumstances, paragraph 82 requires disclosure
of the amount of the deferred tax asset and the nature of the evidence supporting its recognition.
36 An entity considers the following criteria in assessing the probability that taxable profit will be available against
which the unused tax losses or unused tax credits can be utilised:
(a) whether the entity has sufficient taxable temporary differences relating to the same taxation authority
and the same taxable entity, which will result in taxable amounts against which the unused tax losses
or unused tax credits can be utilised before they expire;
(b) whether it is probable that the entity will have taxable profits before the unused tax losses or unused
tax credits expire;
(c) whether the unused tax losses result from identifiable causes which are unlikely to recur; and
(d) whether tax planning opportunities (see paragraph 30) are available to the entity that will create
taxable profit in the period in which the unused tax losses or unused tax credits can be utilised.
To the extent that it is not probable that taxable profit will be available against which the unused tax losses or
unused tax credits can be utilised, the deferred tax asset is not recognised.

Reassessment of unrecognised deferred tax assets

37 At the end of each reporting period, an entity reassesses unrecognised deferred tax assets. The entity recognises
a previously unrecognised deferred tax asset to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profit
will allow the deferred tax asset to be recovered. For example, an improvement in trading conditions may make
it more probable that the entity will be able to generate sufficient taxable profit in the future for the deferred tax
asset to meet the recognition criteria set out in paragraph 24 or 34. Another example is when an entity reassesses
deferred tax assets at the date of a business combination or subsequently (see paragraphs 67 and 68).

Investments in subsidiaries, branches and associates and interests

in joint ventures
38 Temporary differences arise when the carrying amount of investments in subsidiaries, branches and associates
or interests in joint ventures (namely the parent or investor’s share of the net assets of the subsidiary, branch,
associate or investee, including the carrying amount of goodwill) becomes different from the tax base (which is
often cost) of the investment or interest. Such differences may arise in a number of different circumstances, for
example:
(a) the existence of undistributed profits of subsidiaries, branches, associates and joint ventures;
(b) changes in foreign exchange rates when a parent and its subsidiary are based in different countries;
and
(c) a reduction in the carrying amount of an investment in an associate to its recoverable amount.
In consolidated financial statements, the temporary difference may be different from the temporary difference
associated with that investment in the parent’s separate financial statements if the parent carries the investment
in its separate financial statements at cost or revalued amount.
39 An entity shall recognise a deferred tax liability for all taxable temporary differences associated with
investments in subsidiaries, branches and associates, and interests in joint ventures, except to the extent
that both of the following conditions are satisfied:
(a) the parent, investor or venturer is able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary
difference; and

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(b) it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.
40 As a parent controls the dividend policy of its subsidiary, it is able to control the timing of the reversal of
temporary differences associated with that investment (including the temporary differences arising not only
from undistributed profits but also from any foreign exchange translation differences). Furthermore, it would
often be impracticable to determine the amount of income taxes that would be payable when the temporary
difference reverses. Therefore, when the parent has determined that those profits will not be distributed in the
foreseeable future the parent does not recognise a deferred tax liability. The same considerations apply to
investments in branches.
41 The non-monetary assets and liabilities of an entity are measured in its functional currency (see IAS 21 The
Effects of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates). If the entity’s taxable profit or tax loss (and, hence, the tax base
of its non-monetary assets and liabilities) is determined in a different currency, changes in the exchange rate
give rise to temporary differences that result in a recognised deferred tax liability or (subject to paragraph 24)
asset. The resulting deferred tax is charged or credited to profit or loss (see paragraph 58).
42 An investor in an associate does not control that entity and is usually not in a position to determine its dividend
policy. Therefore, in the absence of an agreement requiring that the profits of the associate will not be
distributed in the foreseeable future, an investor recognises a deferred tax liability arising from taxable
temporary differences associated with its investment in the associate. In some cases, an investor may not be able
to determine the amount of tax that would be payable if it recovers the cost of its investment in an associate, but
can determine that it will equal or exceed a minimum amount. In such cases, the deferred tax liability is
measured at this amount.
43 The arrangement between the parties to a joint venture usually deals with the sharing of the profits and identifies
whether decisions on such matters require the consent of all the venturers or a specified majority of the
venturers. When the venturer can control the sharing of profits and it is probable that the profits will not be
distributed in the foreseeable future, a deferred tax liability is not recognised.
44 An entity shall recognise a deferred tax asset for all deductible temporary differences arising from
investments in subsidiaries, branches and associates, and interests in joint ventures, to the extent that,
and only to the extent that, it is probable that:
(a) the temporary difference will reverse in the foreseeable future; and
(b) taxable profit will be available against which the temporary difference can be utilised.
45 In deciding whether a deferred tax asset is recognised for deductible temporary differences associated with its
investments in subsidiaries, branches and associates, and its interests in joint ventures, an entity considers the
guidance set out in paragraphs 28 to 31.

Measurement
46 Current tax liabilities (assets) for the current and prior periods shall be measured at the amount expected
to be paid to (recovered from) the taxation authorities, using the tax rates (and tax laws) that have been
enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period.
47 Deferred tax assets and liabilities shall be measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply to the
period when the asset is realised or the liability is settled, based on tax rates (and tax laws) that have been
enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period.
48 Current and deferred tax assets and liabilities are usually measured using the tax rates (and tax laws) that have
been enacted. However, in some jurisdictions, announcements of tax rates (and tax laws) by the government
have the substantive effect of actual enactment, which may follow the announcement by a period of several
months. In these circumstances, tax assets and liabilities are measured using the announced tax rate (and tax
laws).
49 When different tax rates apply to different levels of taxable income, deferred tax assets and liabilities are
measured using the average rates that are expected to apply to the taxable profit (tax loss) of the periods in
which the temporary differences are expected to reverse.
50 [Deleted]
51 The measurement of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets shall reflect the tax consequences that
would follow from the manner in which the entity expects, at the end of the reporting period, to recover
or settle the carrying amount of its assets and liabilities.
52 In some jurisdictions, the manner in which an entity recovers (settles) the carrying amount of an asset (liability)
may affect either or both of:

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(a) the tax rate applicable when the entity recovers (settles) the carrying amount of the asset (liability);
and
(b) the tax base of the asset (liability).
In such cases, an entity measures deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets using the tax rate and the tax
base that are consistent with the expected manner of recovery or settlement.

Example A

An asset has a carrying amount of 100 and a tax base of 60. A tax rate of 20% would apply if the asset were
sold and a tax rate of 30% would apply to other income.
The entity recognises a deferred tax liability of 8 (40 at 20%) if it expects to sell the asset without further use
and a deferred tax liability of 12 (40 at 30%) if it expects to retain the asset and recover its carrying amount
through use.

Example B

An asset with a cost of 100 and a carrying amount of 80 is revalued to 150. No equivalent adjustment is made
for tax purposes. Cumulative depreciation for tax purposes is 30 and the tax rate is 30%. If the asset is sold for
more than cost, the cumulative tax depreciation of 30 will be included in taxable income but sale proceeds in
excess of cost will not be taxable.
The tax base of the asset is 70 and there is a taxable temporary difference of 80. If the entity expects to recover
the carrying amount by using the asset, it must generate taxable income of 150, but will only be able to deduct
depreciation of 70. On this basis, there is a deferred tax liability of 24 (80 at 30%). If the entity expects to
recover the carrying amount by selling the asset immediately for proceeds of 150, the deferred tax liability is
computed as follows:

Taxable Deferred
Temporary Tax Liability
Difference Tax Rate

Cumulative tax depreciation 30 30% 9

Proceeds in excess of cost 50 nil –

Total 80 9

(note: in accordance with paragraph 61A, the additional deferred tax that arises on the revaluation is
recognised in other comprehensive income)

Example C

The facts are as in example B, except that if the asset is sold for more than cost, the cumulative tax
depreciation will be included in taxable income (taxed at 30%) and the sale proceeds will be taxed at 40%,
after deducting an inflation-adjusted cost of 110.
If the entity expects to recover the carrying amount by using the asset, it must generate taxable income of 150,
but will only be able to deduct depreciation of 70. On this basis, the tax base is 70, there is a taxable
temporary difference of 80 and there is a deferred tax liability of 24 (80 at 30%), as in example B.
If the entity expects to recover the carrying amount by selling the asset immediately for proceeds of 150, the

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Example C
entity will be able to deduct the indexed cost of 110. The net proceeds of 40 will be taxed at 40%. In addition,
the cumulative tax depreciation of 30 will be included in taxable income and taxed at 30%. On this basis, the
tax base is 80 (110 less 30), there is a taxable temporary difference of 70 and there is a deferred tax liability of
25 (40 at 40% plus 30 at 30%). If the tax base is not immediately apparent in this example, it may be helpful to
consider the fundamental principle set out in paragraph 10.
(note: in accordance with paragraph 61A, the additional deferred tax that arises on the revaluation is
recognised in other comprehensive income)

52A In some jurisdictions, income taxes are payable at a higher or lower rate if part or all of the net profit or retained
earnings is paid out as a dividend to shareholders of the entity. In some other jurisdictions, income taxes may be
refundable or payable if part or all of the net profit or retained earnings is paid out as a dividend to shareholders
of the entity. In these circumstances, current and deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rate
applicable to undistributed profits.
52B In the circumstances described in paragraph 52A, the income tax consequences of dividends are recognised
when a liability to pay the dividend is recognised. The income tax consequences of dividends are more directly
linked to past transactions or events than to distributions to owners. Therefore, the income tax consequences of
dividends are recognised in profit or loss for the period as required by paragraph 58 except to the extent that the
income tax consequences of dividends arise from the circumstances described in paragraph 58(a) and (b).

Example illustrating paragraphs 52A and 52B

The following example deals with the measurement of current and deferred tax assets and liabilities for an
entity in a jurisdiction where income taxes are payable at a higher rate on undistributed profits (50%) with an
amount being refundable when profits are distributed. The tax rate on distributed profits is 35%. At the end of
the reporting period, 31 December 20X1, the entity does not recognise a liability for dividends proposed or
declared after the reporting period. As a result, no dividends are recognised in the year 20X1. Taxable income
for 20X1 is 100,000. The net taxable temporary difference for the year 20X1 is 40,000.
The entity recognises a current tax liability and a current income tax expense of 50,000. No asset is recognised
for the amount potentially recoverable as a result of future dividends. The entity also recognises a deferred tax
liability and deferred tax expense of 20,000 (40,000 at 50%) representing the income taxes that the entity will
pay when it recovers or settles the carrying amounts of its assets and liabilities based on the tax rate
applicable to undistributed profits.
Subsequently, on 15 March 20X2 the entity recognises dividends of 10,000 from previous operating profits as
a liability.
On 15 March 20X2, the entity recognises the recovery of income taxes of 1,500 (15% of the dividends
recognised as a liability) as a current tax asset and as a reduction of current income tax expense for 20X2.

53 Deferred tax assets and liabilities shall not be discounted.

54 The reliable determination of deferred tax assets and liabilities on a discounted basis requires detailed
scheduling of the timing of the reversal of each temporary difference. In many cases such scheduling is
impracticable or highly complex. Therefore, it is inappropriate to require discounting of deferred tax assets and
liabilities. To permit, but not to require, discounting would result in deferred tax assets and liabilities which
would not be comparable between entities. Therefore, this Standard does not require or permit the discounting
of deferred tax assets and liabilities.
55 Temporary differences are determined by reference to the carrying amount of an asset or liability. This applies
even where that carrying amount is itself determined on a discounted basis, for example in the case of retirement
benefit obligations (see IAS 19 Employee Benefits).
56 The carrying amount of a deferred tax asset shall be reviewed at the end of each reporting period. An
entity shall reduce the carrying amount of a deferred tax asset to the extent that it is no longer probable
that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow the benefit of part or all of that deferred tax asset to
be utilised. Any such reduction shall be reversed to the extent that it becomes probable that sufficient
taxable profit will be available.

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Recognition of current and deferred tax

57 Accounting for the current and deferred tax effects of a transaction or other event is consistent with the
accounting for the transaction or event itself. Paragraphs 58 to 68C implement this principle.

Items recognised in profit or loss

58 Current and deferred tax shall be recognised as income or an expense and included in profit or loss for
the period, except to the extent that the tax arises from:
(a) a transaction or event which is recognised, in the same or a different period, outside profit or
loss, either in other comprehensive income or directly in equity (see paragraphs 61A to 65); or
(b) a business combination (see paragraphs 66 to 68).
59 Most deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets arise where income or expense is included in accounting
profit in one period, but is included in taxable profit (tax loss) in a different period. The resulting deferred tax is
recognised in profit or loss. Examples are when:
(a) interest, royalty or dividend revenue is received in arrears and is included in accounting profit on a
time apportionment basis in accordance with IAS 18 Revenue, but is included in taxable profit (tax
loss) on a cash basis; and
(b) costs of intangible assets have been capitalised in accordance with IAS 38 and are being amortised in
profit or loss, but were deducted for tax purposes when they were incurred.
60 The carrying amount of deferred tax assets and liabilities may change even though there is no change in the
amount of the related temporary differences. This can result, for example, from:
(a) a change in tax rates or tax laws;
(b) a reassessment of the recoverability of deferred tax assets; or
(c) a change in the expected manner of recovery of an asset.
The resulting deferred tax is recognised in profit or loss, except to the extent that it relates to items previously
recognised outside profit or loss (see paragraph 63).

Items recognised outside profit or loss

61 [Deleted]
61A Current tax and deferred tax shall be recognised outside profit or loss if the tax relates to items that are
recognised, in the same or a different period, outside profit or loss. Therefore, current tax and deferred
tax that relates to items that are recognised, in the same or a different period:
(a) in other comprehensive income, shall be recognised in other comprehensive income (see
paragraph 62).
(b) directly in equity, shall be recognised directly in equity (see paragraph 62A).
62 International Financial Reporting Standards require or permit particular items to be recognised in other
comprehensive income. Examples of such items are:
(a) a change in carrying amount arising from the revaluation of property, plant and equipment (see IAS
16); and
(b) [deleted]
(c) exchange differences arising on the translation of the financial statements of a foreign operation (see
IAS 21).
(d) [deleted]
62A International Financial Reporting Standards require or permit particular items to be credited or charged directly
to equity. Examples of such items are:
(a) an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings resulting from either a change in accounting
policy that is applied retrospectively or the correction of an error (see IAS 8 Accounting Policies,
Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors); and
(b) amounts arising on initial recognition of the equity component of a compound financial instrument
(see paragraph 23).

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63 In exceptional circumstances it may be difficult to determine the amount of current and deferred tax that relates
to items recognised outside profit or loss (either in other comprehensive income or directly in equity). This may
be the case, for example, when:
(a) there are graduated rates of income tax and it is impossible to determine the rate at which a specific
component of taxable profit (tax loss) has been taxed;
(b) a change in the tax rate or other tax rules affects a deferred tax asset or liability relating (in whole or
in part) to an item that was previously recognised outside profit or loss; or
(c) an entity determines that a deferred tax asset should be recognised, or should no longer be recognised
in full, and the deferred tax asset relates (in whole or in part) to an item that was previously
recognised outside profit or loss.
In such cases, the current and deferred tax related to items that are recognised outside profit or loss are based on
a reasonable pro rata allocation of the current and deferred tax of the entity in the tax jurisdiction concerned, or
other method that achieves a more appropriate allocation in the circumstances.
64 IAS 16 does not specify whether an entity should transfer each year from revaluation surplus to retained
earnings an amount equal to the difference between the depreciation or amortisation on a revalued asset and the
depreciation or amortisation based on the cost of that asset. If an entity makes such a transfer, the amount
transferred is net of any related deferred tax. Similar considerations apply to transfers made on disposal of an
item of property, plant or equipment.
65 When an asset is revalued for tax purposes and that revaluation is related to an accounting revaluation of an
earlier period, or to one that is expected to be carried out in a future period, the tax effects of both the asset
revaluation and the adjustment of the tax base are recognised in other comprehensive income in the periods in
which they occur. However, if the revaluation for tax purposes is not related to an accounting revaluation of an
earlier period, or to one that is expected to be carried out in a future period, the tax effects of the adjustment of
the tax base are recognised in profit or loss.
65A When an entity pays dividends to its shareholders, it may be required to pay a portion of the dividends to
taxation authorities on behalf of shareholders. In many jurisdictions, this amount is referred to as a withholding
tax. Such an amount paid or payable to taxation authorities is charged to equity as a part of the dividends.

Deferred tax arising from a business combination

66 As explained in paragraphs 19 and 26(c), temporary differences may arise in a business combination. In
accordance with IFRS 3, an entity recognises any resulting deferred tax assets (to the extent that they meet the
recognition criteria in paragraph 24) or deferred tax liabilities as identifiable assets and liabilities at the
acquisition date. Consequently, those deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities affect the amount of
goodwill or the bargain purchase gain the entity recognises. However, in accordance with paragraph 15(a), an
entity does not recognise deferred tax liabilities arising from the initial recognition of goodwill.
67 As a result of a business combination, the probability of realising a pre-acquisition deferred tax asset of the
acquirer could change. An acquirer may consider it probable that it will recover its own deferred tax asset that
was not recognised before the business combination. For example, the acquirer may be able to utilise the benefit
of its unused tax losses against the future taxable profit of the acquiree. Alternatively, as a result of the business
combination it might no longer be probable that future taxable profit will allow the deferred tax asset to be
recovered. In such cases, the acquirer recognises a change in the deferred tax asset in the period of the business
combination, but does not include it as part of the accounting for the business combination. Therefore, the
acquirer does not take it into account in measuring the goodwill or bargain purchase gain it recognises in the
business combination.
68 The potential benefit of the acquiree’s income tax loss carryforwards or other deferred tax assets might not
satisfy the criteria for separate recognition when a business combination is initially accounted for but might be
realised subsequently. An entity shall recognise acquired deferred tax benefits that it realises after the business
combination as follows:
(a) Acquired deferred tax benefits recognised within the measurement period that result from new
information about facts and circumstances that existed at the acquisition date shall be applied to
reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill related to that acquisition. If the carrying amount of that
goodwill is zero, any remaining deferred tax benefits shall be recognised in profit or loss.
(b) All other acquired deferred tax benefits realised shall be recognised in profit or loss (or, if this
Standard so requires, outside profit or loss).

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Current and deferred tax arising from share-based payment

transactions
68A In some tax jurisdictions, an entity receives a tax deduction (ie an amount that is deductible in determining
taxable profit) that relates to remuneration paid in shares, share options or other equity instruments of the entity.
The amount of that tax deduction may differ from the related cumulative remuneration expense, and may arise
in a later accounting period. For example, in some jurisdictions, an entity may recognise an expense for the
consumption of employee services received as consideration for share options granted, in accordance with IFRS
2 Share-based Payment, and not receive a tax deduction until the share options are exercised, with the
measurement of the tax deduction based on the entity’s share price at the date of exercise.
68B As with the research costs discussed in paragraphs 9 and 26(b) of this Standard, the difference between the tax
base of the employee services received to date (being the amount the taxation authorities will permit as a
deduction in future periods), and the carrying amount of nil, is a deductible temporary difference that results in a
deferred tax asset. If the amount the taxation authorities will permit as a deduction in future periods is not
known at the end of the period, it shall be estimated, based on information available at the end of the period. For
example, if the amount that the taxation authorities will permit as a deduction in future periods is dependent
upon the entity’s share price at a future date, the measurement of the deductible temporary difference should be
based on the entity’s share price at the end of the period.
68C As noted in paragraph 68A, the amount of the tax deduction (or estimated future tax deduction, measured in
accordance with paragraph 68B) may differ from the related cumulative remuneration expense. Paragraph 58 of
the Standard requires that current and deferred tax should be recognised as income or an expense and included
in profit or loss for the period, except to the extent that the tax arises from (a) a transaction or event that is
recognised, in the same or a different period, outside profit or loss, or (b) a business combination. If the amount
of the tax deduction (or estimated future tax deduction) exceeds the amount of the related cumulative
remuneration expense, this indicates that the tax deduction relates not only to remuneration expense but also to
an equity item. In this situation, the excess of the associated current or deferred tax should be recognised
directly in equity.

Presentation

Tax assets and tax liabilities

69 [Deleted]
70 [Deleted]

Offset
71 An entity shall offset current tax assets and current tax liabilities if, and only if, the entity:
(a) has a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts; and
(b) intends either to settle on a net basis, or to realise the asset and settle the liability
simultaneously.
72 Although current tax assets and liabilities are separately recognised and measured they are offset in the
statement of financial position subject to criteria similar to those established for financial instruments in IAS 32.
An entity will normally have a legally enforceable right to set off a current tax asset against a current tax
liability when they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority and the taxation authority
permits the entity to make or receive a single net payment.
73 In consolidated financial statements, a current tax asset of one entity in a group is offset against a current tax
liability of another entity in the group if, and only if, the entities concerned have a legally enforceable right to
make or receive a single net payment and the entities intend to make or receive such a net payment or to recover
the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
74 An entity shall offset deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities if, and only if:
(a) the entity has a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax
liabilities; and
(b) the deferred tax assets and the deferred tax liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same
taxation authority on either:
(i) the same taxable entity; or

© IASCF 21
IAS 12

(ii) different taxable entities which intend either to settle current tax liabilities and assets
on a net basis, or to realise the assets and settle the liabilities simultaneously, in each
future period in which significant amounts of deferred tax liabilities or assets are
expected to be settled or recovered.
75 To avoid the need for detailed scheduling of the timing of the reversal of each temporary difference, this
Standard requires an entity to set off a deferred tax asset against a deferred tax liability of the same taxable
entity if, and only if, they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority and the entity has a
legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities.
76 In rare circumstances, an entity may have a legally enforceable right of set-off, and an intention to settle net, for
some periods but not for others. In such rare circumstances, detailed scheduling may be required to establish
reliably whether the deferred tax liability of one taxable entity will result in increased tax payments in the same
period in which a deferred tax asset of another taxable entity will result in decreased payments by that second
taxable entity.

Tax expense

Tax expense (income) related to profit or loss from ordinary activities

77 The tax expense (income) related to profit or loss from ordinary activities shall be presented in the
statement of comprehensive income.
77A If an entity presents the components of profit or loss in a separate income statement as described in
paragraph 81 of IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements (as revised in 2007), it presents the tax
expense (income) related to profit or loss from ordinary activities in that separate statement.

Exchange differences on deferred foreign tax liabilities or assets

78 IAS 21 requires certain exchange differences to be recognised as income or expense but does not specify where
such differences should be presented in the statement of comprehensive income. Accordingly, where exchange
differences on deferred foreign tax liabilities or assets are recognised in the statement of comprehensive income,
such differences may be classified as deferred tax expense (income) if that presentation is considered to be the
most useful to financial statement users.

Disclosure
79 The major components of tax expense (income) shall be disclosed separately.
80 Components of tax expense (income) may include:
(a) current tax expense (income);
(b) any adjustments recognised in the period for current tax of prior periods;
(c) the amount of deferred tax expense (income) relating to the origination and reversal of temporary
differences;
(d) the amount of deferred tax expense (income) relating to changes in tax rates or the imposition of new
taxes;
(e) the amount of the benefit arising from a previously unrecognised tax loss, tax credit or temporary
difference of a prior period that is used to reduce current tax expense;
(f) the amount of the benefit from a previously unrecognised tax loss, tax credit or temporary difference
of a prior period that is used to reduce deferred tax expense;
(g) deferred tax expense arising from the write-down, or reversal of a previous write-down, of a deferred
tax asset in accordance with paragraph 56; and
(h) the amount of tax expense (income) relating to those changes in accounting policies and errors that
are included in profit or loss in accordance with IAS 8, because they cannot be accounted for
retrospectively.
81 The following shall also be disclosed separately:
(a) the aggregate current and deferred tax relating to items that are charged or credited directly to
equity (see paragraph 62A);

22 © IASCF
 IAS 12

(ab) the amount of income tax relating to each component of other comprehensive income (see
paragraph 62 and IAS 1 (as revised in 2007));
(b) [deleted];
(c) an explanation of the relationship between tax expense (income) and accounting profit in either
or both of the following forms:
(i) a numerical reconciliation between tax expense (income) and the product of
accounting profit multiplied by the applicable tax rate(s), disclosing also the basis on
which the applicable tax rate(s) is (are) computed; or
(ii) a numerical reconciliation between the average effective tax rate and the applicable
tax rate, disclosing also the basis on which the applicable tax rate is computed;
(d) an explanation of changes in the applicable tax rate(s) compared to the previous accounting
period;
(e) the amount (and expiry date, if any) of deductible temporary differences, unused tax losses, and
unused tax credits for which no deferred tax asset is recognised in the statement of financial
position;
(f) the aggregate amount of temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries,
branches and associates and interests in joint ventures, for which deferred tax liabilities have
not been recognised (see paragraph 39);
(g) in respect of each type of temporary difference, and in respect of each type of unused tax losses
and unused tax credits:
(i) the amount of the deferred tax assets and liabilities recognised in the statement of
financial position for each period presented;
(ii) the amount of the deferred tax income or expense recognised in profit or loss, if this is
not apparent from the changes in the amounts recognised in the statement of financial
position;
(h) in respect of discontinued operations, the tax expense relating to:
(i) the gain or loss on discontinuance; and
(ii) the profit or loss from the ordinary activities of the discontinued operation for the
period, together with the corresponding amounts for each prior period presented;
(i) the amount of income tax consequences of dividends to shareholders of the entity that were
proposed or declared before the financial statements were authorised for issue, but are not
recognised as a liability in the financial statements;
(j) if a business combination in which the entity is the acquirer causes a change in the amount
recognised for its pre-acquisition deferred tax asset (see paragraph 67), the amount of that
change; and
(k) if the deferred tax benefits acquired in a business combination are not recognised at the
acquisition date but are recognised after the acquisition date (see paragraph 68), a description
of the event or change in circumstances that caused the deferred tax benefits to be recognised.
82 An entity shall disclose the amount of a deferred tax asset and the nature of the evidence supporting its
recognition, when:
(a) the utilisation of the deferred tax asset is dependent on future taxable profits in excess of the
profits arising from the reversal of existing taxable temporary differences; and
(b) the entity has suffered a loss in either the current or preceding period in the tax jurisdiction to
which the deferred tax asset relates.
82A In the circumstances described in paragraph 52A, an entity shall disclose the nature of the potential
income tax consequences that would result from the payment of dividends to its shareholders. In addition,
the entity shall disclose the amounts of the potential income tax consequences practicably determinable
and whether there are any potential income tax consequences not practicably determinable.
83 [Deleted]
84 The disclosures required by paragraph 81(c) enable users of financial statements to understand whether the
relationship between tax expense (income) and accounting profit is unusual and to understand the significant
factors that could affect that relationship in the future. The relationship between tax expense (income) and
accounting profit may be affected by such factors as revenue that is exempt from taxation, expenses that are not
deductible in determining taxable profit (tax loss), the effect of tax losses and the effect of foreign tax rates.

© IASCF 23
IAS 12

85 In explaining the relationship between tax expense (income) and accounting profit, an entity uses an applicable
tax rate that provides the most meaningful information to the users of its financial statements. Often, the most
meaningful rate is the domestic rate of tax in the country in which the entity is domiciled, aggregating the tax
rate applied for national taxes with the rates applied for any local taxes which are computed on a substantially
similar level of taxable profit (tax loss). However, for an entity operating in several jurisdictions, it may be more
meaningful to aggregate separate reconciliations prepared using the domestic rate in each individual jurisdiction.
The following example illustrates how the selection of the applicable tax rate affects the presentation of the
numerical reconciliation.

Example illustrating paragraph 85

In 19X2, an entity has accounting profit in its own jurisdiction (country A) of 1,500 (19X1: 2,000) and in
country B of 1,500 (19X1: 500). The tax rate is 30% in country A and 20% in country B. In country A,
expenses of 100 (19X1: 200) are not deductible for tax purposes.

The following is an example of a reconciliation to the domestic tax rate.

19X1 19X2

Accounting profit 2,500 3,000

Tax at the domestic rate of 30% 750 900

Tax effect of expenses that are not deductible for tax purposes 60 30

Effect of lower tax rates in country B (50) (150)

Tax expense 760 780

The following is an example of a reconciliation prepared by aggregating separate reconciliations for each
national jurisdiction. Under this method, the effect of differences between the reporting entity’s own domestic
tax rate and the domestic tax rate in other jurisdictions does not appear as a separate item in the
reconciliation. An entity may need to discuss the effect of significant changes in either tax rates, or the mix of
profits earned in different jurisdictions, in order to explain changes in the applicable tax rate(s), as required
by paragraph 81(d).

Accounting profit 2,500 3,000

Tax at the domestic rates applicable to profits in the country concerned 700 750

Tax effect of expenses that are not deductible for tax purposes 60 30

Tax expense 760 780

86 The average effective tax rate is the tax expense (income) divided by the accounting profit.
87 It would often be impracticable to compute the amount of unrecognised deferred tax liabilities arising from
investments in subsidiaries, branches and associates and interests in joint ventures (see paragraph 39).
Therefore, this Standard requires an entity to disclose the aggregate amount of the underlying temporary
differences but does not require disclosure of the deferred tax liabilities. Nevertheless, where practicable,
entities are encouraged to disclose the amounts of the unrecognised deferred tax liabilities because financial
statement users may find such information useful.
87A Paragraph 82A requires an entity to disclose the nature of the potential income tax consequences that would
result from the payment of dividends to its shareholders. An entity discloses the important features of the

24 © IASCF
 IAS 12

income tax systems and the factors that will affect the amount of the potential income tax consequences of
dividends.
87B It would sometimes not be practicable to compute the total amount of the potential income tax consequences
that would result from the payment of dividends to shareholders. This may be the case, for example, where an
entity has a large number of foreign subsidiaries. However, even in such circumstances, some portions of the
total amount may be easily determinable. For example, in a consolidated group, a parent and some of its
subsidiaries may have paid income taxes at a higher rate on undistributed profits and be aware of the amount
that would be refunded on the payment of future dividends to shareholders from consolidated retained earnings.
In this case, that refundable amount is disclosed. If applicable, the entity also discloses that there are additional
potential income tax consequences not practicably determinable. In the parent’s separate financial statements, if
any, the disclosure of the potential income tax consequences relates to the parent’s retained earnings.
87C An entity required to provide the disclosures in paragraph 82A may also be required to provide disclosures
related to temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, branches and associates or interests
in joint ventures. In such cases, an entity considers this in determining the information to be disclosed under
paragraph 82A. For example, an entity may be required to disclose the aggregate amount of temporary
differences associated with investments in subsidiaries for which no deferred tax liabilities have been recognised
(see paragraph 81(f)). If it is impracticable to compute the amounts of unrecognised deferred tax liabilities (see
paragraph 87) there may be amounts of potential income tax consequences of dividends not practicably
determinable related to these subsidiaries.
88 An entity discloses any tax-related contingent liabilities and contingent assets in accordance with IAS 37
Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets. Contingent liabilities and contingent assets may arise,
for example, from unresolved disputes with the taxation authorities. Similarly, where changes in tax rates or tax
laws are enacted or announced after the reporting period, an entity discloses any significant effect of those
changes on its current and deferred tax assets and liabilities (see IAS 10 Events after the Reporting Period).

Effective date
89 This Standard becomes operative for financial statements covering periods beginning on or after 1 January
1998, except as specified in paragraph 91. If an entity applies this Standard for financial statements covering
periods beginning before 1 January 1998, the entity shall disclose the fact it has applied this Standard instead of
IAS 12 Accounting for Taxes on Income, approved in 1979.
90 This Standard supersedes IAS 12 Accounting for Taxes on Income, approved in 1979.
91 Paragraphs 52A, 52B, 65A, 81(i), 82A, 87A, 87B, 87C and the deletion of paragraphs 3 and 50 become
operative for annual financial statements * covering periods beginning on or after 1 January 2001. Earlier
adoption is encouraged. If earlier adoption affects the financial statements, an entity shall disclose that fact.
92 IAS 1 (as revised in 2007) amended the terminology used throughout IFRSs. In addition it amended paragraphs
23, 52, 58, 60, 62, 63, 65, 68C, 77 and 81, deleted paragraph 61 and added paragraphs 61A, 62A and 77A. An
entity shall apply those amendments for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009. If an entity applies
IAS 1 (revised 2007) for an earlier period, the amendments shall be applied for that earlier period.
93 Paragraph 68 shall be applied prospectively from the effective date of IFRS 3 (as revised in 2008) to the
recognition of deferred tax assets acquired in business combinations.
94 Therefore, entities shall not adjust the accounting for prior business combinations if tax benefits failed to satisfy
the criteria for separate recognition as of the acquisition date and are recognised after the acquisition date, unless
the benefits are recognised within the measurement period and result from new information about facts and
circumstances that existed at the acquisition date. Other tax benefits recognised shall be recognised in profit or
loss (or, if this Standard so requires, outside profit or loss).
95 IFRS 3 (as revised in 2008) amended paragraphs 21 and 67 and added paragraphs 32A and 81(j) and (k). An
entity shall apply those amendments for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009. If an entity applies
IFRS 3 (revised 2008) for an earlier period, the amendments shall also be applied for that earlier period.

*
Paragraph 91 refers to ‘annual financial statements’ in line with more explicit language for writing effective dates adopted in 1998.
Paragraph 89 refers to ‘financial statements’.

© IASCF 25
Appendix A
Examples of temporary differences
The appendix accompanies, but is not part of, IAS 12.

A. Examples of circumstances that give rise to taxable temporary

differences
All taxable temporary differences give rise to a deferred tax liability.

Transactions that affect profit or loss

1 Interest revenue is received in arrears and is included in accounting profit on a time apportionment
basis but is included in taxable profit on a cash basis.
2 Revenue from the sale of goods is included in accounting profit when goods are delivered but is
included in taxable profit when cash is collected. (note: as explained in B3 below, there is also a
deductible temporary difference associated with any related inventory).
3 Depreciation of an asset is accelerated for tax purposes.
4 Development costs have been capitalised and will be amortised to the statement of comprehensive
income but were deducted in determining taxable profit in the period in which they were incurred.
5 Prepaid expenses have already been deducted on a cash basis in determining the taxable profit of the
current or previous periods.

Transactions that affect the statement of financial position

6 Depreciation of an asset is not deductible for tax purposes and no deduction will be available for tax
purposes when the asset is sold or scrapped. (note: paragraph 15(b) of the Standard prohibits
recognition of the resulting deferred tax liability unless the asset was acquired in a business
combination, see also paragraph 22 of the Standard.)
7 A borrower records a loan at the proceeds received (which equal the amount due at maturity), less
transaction costs. Subsequently, the carrying amount of the loan is increased by amortisation of the
transaction costs to accounting profit. The transaction costs were deducted for tax purposes in the
period when the loan was first recognised. (notes: (1) the taxable temporary difference is the amount of
transaction costs already deducted in determining the taxable profit of current or prior periods, less
the cumulative amount amortised to accounting profit; and (2) as the initial recognition of the loan
affects taxable profit, the exception in paragraph 15(b) of the Standard does not apply. Therefore, the
borrower recognises the deferred tax liability.)
8 A loan payable was measured on initial recognition at the amount of the net proceeds, net of
transaction costs. The transaction costs are amortised to accounting profit over the life of the loan.
Those transaction costs are not deductible in determining the taxable profit of future, current or prior
periods. (notes: (1) the taxable temporary difference is the amount of unamortised transaction costs;
and (2) paragraph 15(b) of the Standard prohibits recognition of the resulting deferred tax liability.)
9 The liability component of a compound financial instrument (for example a convertible bond) is
measured at a discount to the amount repayable on maturity (see IAS 32 Financial Instruments:
Presentation). The discount is not deductible in determining taxable profit (tax loss).

26 © IASCF
 Fair value adjustments and revaluations
10 Financial assets or investment property are carried at fair value which exceeds cost but no equivalent
adjustment is made for tax purposes.
11 An entity revalues property, plant and equipment (under the revaluation model treatment in IAS 16
Property, Plant and Equipment) but no equivalent adjustment is made for tax purposes. (note:
paragraph 61A of the Standard requires the related deferred tax to be recognised in other
comprehensive income.)

Business combinations and consolidation

12 The carrying amount of an asset is increased to fair value in a business combination and no equivalent
adjustment is made for tax purposes. (Note that on initial recognition, the resulting deferred tax
liability increases goodwill or decreases the amount of any bargain purchase gain recognised. See
paragraph 66 of the Standard.)
13 Reductions in the carrying amount of goodwill are not deductible in determining taxable profit and the
cost of the goodwill would not be deductible on disposal of the business. (Note that paragraph 15(a) of
the Standard prohibits recognition of the resulting deferred tax liability.)
14 Unrealised losses resulting from intragroup transactions are eliminated by inclusion in the carrying
amount of inventory or property, plant and equipment.
15 Retained earnings of subsidiaries, branches, associates and joint ventures are included in consolidated
retained earnings, but income taxes will be payable if the profits are distributed to the reporting parent.
(note: paragraph 39 of the Standard prohibits recognition of the resulting deferred tax liability if the
parent, investor or venturer is able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference
and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.)
16 Investments in foreign subsidiaries, branches or associates or interests in foreign joint ventures are
affected by changes in foreign exchange rates. (notes: (1) there may be either a taxable temporary
difference or a deductible temporary difference; and (2) paragraph 39 of the Standard prohibits
recognition of the resulting deferred tax liability if the parent, investor or venturer is able to control
the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the temporary difference
will not reverse in the foreseeable future.)
17 The non-monetary assets and liabilities of an entity are measured in its functional currency but the
taxable profit or tax loss is determined in a different currency. (notes: (1) there may be either a taxable
temporary difference or a deductible temporary difference; (2) where there is a taxable temporary
difference, the resulting deferred tax liability is recognised (paragraph 41 of the Standard); and (3)
the deferred tax is recognised in profit or loss, see paragraph 58 of the Standard.)

Hyperinflation
18 Non-monetary assets are restated in terms of the measuring unit current at the end of the reporting
period (see IAS 29 Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies) and no equivalent
adjustment is made for tax purposes. (notes: (1) the deferred tax is recognised in profit or loss; and (2)
if, in addition to the restatement, the non-monetary assets are also revalued, the deferred tax relating
to the revaluation is recognised in other comprehensive income and the deferred tax relating to the
restatement is recognised in profit or loss.)

© IASCF 27
B. Examples of circumstances that give rise to deductible temporary
differences
All deductible temporary differences give rise to a deferred tax asset. However, some deferred tax assets may not
satisfy the recognition criteria in paragraph 24 of the Standard.

Transactions that affect profit or loss

1 Retirement benefit costs are deducted in determining accounting profit as service is provided by the
employee, but are not deducted in determining taxable profit until the entity pays either retirement
benefits or contributions to a fund. (note: similar deductible temporary differences arise where other
expenses, such as product warranty costs or interest, are deductible on a cash basis in determining
taxable profit.)
2 Accumulated depreciation of an asset in the financial statements is greater than the cumulative
depreciation allowed up to the end of the reporting period for tax purposes.
3 The cost of inventories sold before the end of the reporting period is deducted in determining
accounting profit when goods or services are delivered but is deducted in determining taxable profit
when cash is collected. (note: as explained in A2 above, there is also a taxable temporary difference
associated with the related trade receivable.)
4 The net realisable value of an item of inventory, or the recoverable amount of an item of property,
plant or equipment, is less than the previous carrying amount and an entity therefore reduces the
carrying amount of the asset, but that reduction is ignored for tax purposes until the asset is sold.
5 Research costs (or organisation or other start up costs) are recognised as an expense in determining
accounting profit but are not permitted as a deduction in determining taxable profit until a later period.
6 Income is deferred in the statement of financial position but has already been included in taxable profit
in current or prior periods.
7 A government grant which is included in the statement of financial position as deferred income will
not be taxable in future periods. (note: paragraph 24 of the Standard prohibits the recognition of the
resulting deferred tax asset, see also paragraph 33 of the Standard.)

Fair value adjustments and revaluations

8 Financial assets or investment property are carried at fair value which is less than cost, but no
equivalent adjustment is made for tax purposes.

Business combinations and consolidation

9 A liability is recognised at its fair value in a business combination, but none of the related expense is
deducted in determining taxable profit until a later period. (Note that the resulting deferred tax asset
decreases goodwill or increases the amount of any bargain purchase gain recognised. See paragraph
66 of the Standard.)
10 [Deleted]
11 Unrealised profits resulting from intragroup transactions are eliminated from the carrying amount of
assets, such as inventory or property, plant or equipment, but no equivalent adjustment is made for tax
purposes.
12 Investments in foreign subsidiaries, branches or associates or interests in foreign joint ventures are
affected by changes in foreign exchange rates. (notes: (1) there may be a taxable temporary difference
or a deductible temporary difference; and (2) paragraph 44 of the Standard requires recognition of the
resulting deferred tax asset to the extent, and only to the extent, that it is probable that: (a) the
temporary difference will reverse in the foreseeable future; and (b) taxable profit will be available
against which the temporary difference can be utilised).

28 © IASCF
13 The non-monetary assets and liabilities of an entity are measured in its functional currency but the
taxable profit or tax loss is determined in a different currency. (notes: (1) there may be either a taxable
temporary difference or a deductible temporary difference; (2) where there is a deductible temporary
difference, the resulting deferred tax asset is recognised to the extent that it is probable that sufficient
taxable profit will be available (paragraph 41 of the Standard); and (3) the deferred tax is recognised
in profit or loss, see paragraph 58 of the Standard.)

C. Examples of circumstances where the carrying amount of an

asset or liability is equal to its tax base
1 Accrued expenses have already been deducted in determining an entity’s current tax liability for the
current or earlier periods.
2 A loan payable is measured at the amount originally received and this amount is the same as the
amount repayable on final maturity of the loan.
3 Accrued expenses will never be deductible for tax purposes.
4 Accrued income will never be taxable.

© IASCF 29
Appendix B
Illustrative computations and presentation
The appendix accompanies, but is not part of, IAS 12. Extracts from statements of financial position and
statements of comprehensive income are provided to show the effects on these financial statements of the
transactions described below. These extracts do not necessarily conform with all the disclosure and presentation
requirements of other Standards.
All the examples in this appendix assume that the entities concerned have no transaction other than those
described.

Example 1 – Depreciable assets

An entity buys equipment for 10,000 and depreciates it on a straight-line basis over its expected useful life of
five years. For tax purposes, the equipment is depreciated at 25% a year on a straight-line basis. Tax losses may
be carried back against taxable profit of the previous five years. In year 0, the entity’s taxable profit was 5,000.
The tax rate is 40%.
The entity will recover the carrying amount of the equipment by using it to manufacture goods for resale.
Therefore, the entity’s current tax computation is as follows:

Year

1 2 3 4 5

Taxable income 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000

Depreciation for tax purposes 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 0

Taxable profit (tax loss) (500) (500) (500) (500) 2,000

Current tax expense (income)

at 40% (200) (200) (200) (200) 800

The entity recognises a current tax asset at the end of years 1 to 4 because it recovers the benefit of the tax loss
against the taxable profit of year 0.
The temporary differences associated with the equipment and the resulting deferred tax asset and liability and
deferred tax expense and income are as follows:

Year

1 2 3 4 5

Carrying amount 8,000 6,000 4,000 2,000 0

Tax base 7,500 5,000 2,500 0 0

Taxable temporary difference 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 0

30 © IASCF
Opening deferred tax liability 0 200 400 600 800

Deferred tax expense (income) 200 200 200 200 (800)

Closing deferred tax liability 200 400 600 800 0

The entity recognises the deferred tax liability in years 1 to 4 because the reversal of the taxable temporary
difference will create taxable income in subsequent years. The entity’s statement of comprehensive income
includes the following:

Year

1 2 3 4 5

Income 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000

Depreciation 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000

Profit before tax 0 0 0 0 0

Current tax expense (income) (200) (200) (200) (200) 800

Deferred tax expense (income) 200 200 200 200 (800)

Total tax expense (income) 0 0 0 0 0

Profit for the period 0 0 0 0 0

Example 2 – Deferred tax assets and liabilities

The example deals with an entity over the two-year period, X5 and X6. In X5 the enacted income tax rate was
40% of taxable profit. In X6 the enacted income tax rate was 35% of taxable profit.
Charitable donations are recognised as an expense when they are paid and are not deductible for tax purposes.
In X5, the entity was notified by the relevant authorities that they intend to pursue an action against the entity
with respect to sulphur emissions. Although as at December X6 the action had not yet come to court the entity
recognised a liability of 700 in X5 being its best estimate of the fine arising from the action. Fines are not
deductible for tax purposes.
In X2, the entity incurred 1,250 of costs in relation to the development of a new product. These costs were
deducted for tax purposes in X2. For accounting purposes, the entity capitalised this expenditure and amortised it
on the straight-line basis over five years. At 31/12/X4, the unamortised balance of these product development
costs was 500.
In X5, the entity entered into an agreement with its existing employees to provide healthcare benefits to retirees.
The entity recognises as an expense the cost of this plan as employees provide service. No payments to retirees
were made for such benefits in X5 or X6. Healthcare costs are deductible for tax purposes when payments are

© IASCF 31
made to retirees. The entity has determined that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which
any resulting deferred tax asset can be utilised.
Buildings are depreciated for accounting purposes at 5% a year on a straight-line basis and at 10% a year on a
straight-line basis for tax purposes. Motor vehicles are depreciated for accounting purposes at 20% a year on a
straight-line basis and at 25% a year on a straight-line basis for tax purposes. A full year’s depreciation is
charged for accounting purposes in the year that an asset is acquired.
At 1/1/X6, the building was revalued to 65,000 and the entity estimated that the remaining useful life of the
building was 20 years from the date of the revaluation. The revaluation did not affect taxable profit in X6 and the
taxation authorities did not adjust the tax base of the building to reflect the revaluation. In X6, the entity
transferred 1,033 from revaluation reserve to retained earnings. This represents the difference of 1,590 between
the actual depreciation on the building (3,250) and equivalent depreciation based on the cost of the building
(1,660, which is the book value at 1/1/X6 of 33,200 divided by the remaining useful life of 20 years), less the
related deferred tax of 557 (see paragraph 64 of the Standard).

Current tax expense

X5 X6

Accounting profit 8,775 8,740

Add

Depreciation for accounting purposes 4,800 8,250

Charitable donations 500 350

Fine for environmental pollution 700 –

Product development costs 250 250

Healthcare benefits 2,000 1,000

17,025 18,590

Deduct

Depreciation for tax purposes (8,100) (11,850)

Taxable profit 8,925 6,740

Current tax expense at 40% 3,570

Current tax expense at 35% 2,359

32 © IASCF
Carrying amounts of property, plant and equipment

Cost Motor
Building vehicles Total

Balance at 31/12/X4 50,000 10,000 60,000

Additions X5 6,000 – 6,000

Balance at 31/12/X5 56,000 10,000 66,000

Elimination of accumulated depreciation on revaluation at 1/1/X6 (22,800) – (22,800)

Revaluation at 1/1/X6 31,800 – 31,800

Balance at 1/1/X6 65,000 10,000 75,000

Additions X6 – 15,000 15,000

65,000 25,000 90,000

Accumulated depreciation 5% 20%

Balance at 31/12/X4 20,000 4,000 24,000

Depreciation X5 2,800 2,000 4,800

Balance at 31/12/X5 22,800 6,000 28,800

Revaluation at 1/1/X6 (22,800) – (22,800)

Balance at 1/1/X6 – 6,000 6,000

Depreciation X6 3,250 5,000 8,250

Balance at 31/12/X6 3,250 11,000 14,250

Carrying amount

31/12/X4 30,000 6,000 36,000

© IASCF 33
Carrying amounts of property, plant and equipment

Cost Motor
Building vehicles Total

31/12/X5 33,200 4,000 37,200

31/12/X6 61,750 14,000 75,750

Tax base of property, plant and equipment

Cost Motor
Building vehicles Total

Balance at 31/12/X4 50,000 10,000 60,000

Additions X5 6,000 – 6,000

Balance at 31/12/X5 56,000 10,000 66,000

Additions X6 – 15,000 15,000

Balance at 31/12/X6 56,000 25,000 81,000

Accumulated depreciation 10% 25%

Balance at 31/12/X4 40,000 5,000 45,000

Depreciation X5 5,600 2,500 8,100

Balance at 31/12/X5 45,600 7,500 53,100

Depreciation X6 5,600 6,250 11,850

Balance 31/12/X6 51,200 13,750 64,950

Tax base

31/12/X4 10,000 5,000 15,000

31/12/X5 10,400 2,500 12,900

31/12/X6 4,800 11,250 16,050

34 © IASCF
Deferred tax assets, liabilities and expense at 31/12/X4

Carrying Temporary
amount Tax base differences

Accounts receivable 500 500 –

Inventory 2,000 2,000 –

Product development costs 500 – 500

Investments 33,000 33,000 –

Property, plant & equipment 36,000 15,000 21,000

TOTAL ASSETS 72,000 50,500 21,500

Current income taxes payable 3,000 3,000 –

Accounts payable 500 500 –

Fines payable – – –

Liability for healthcare benefits – – –

Long-term debt 20,000 20,000 –

Deferred income taxes 8,600 8,600 –

TOTAL LIABILITIES 32,100 32,100

Share capital 5,000 5,000 –

Revaluation surplus – – –

Retained earnings 34,900 13,400

TOTAL LIABILITIES/EQUITY 72,000 50,500

© IASCF 35
Deferred tax assets, liabilities and expense at 31/12/X4

TEMPORARY DIFFERENCES 21,500

Deferred tax liability 21,500 at

40% 8,600

Deferred tax asset – – –

Net deferred tax liability

8,600

Deferred tax assets, liabilities and expense at 31/12/X5

Carrying Temporary
amount Tax base differences

Accounts receivable 500 500 –

Inventory 2,000 2,000 –

Product development costs 250 – 250

Investments 33,000 33,000 –

Property, plant & equipment 37,200 12,900 24,300

TOTAL ASSETS 72,950 48,400 24,550

Current income taxes payable 3,570 3,570 –

Accounts payable 500 500 –

Fines payable 700 700 –

Liability for healthcare benefits 2,000 – (2,000)

36 © IASCF
Deferred tax assets, liabilities and expense at 31/12/X5

Long-term debt 12,475 12,475 –

Deferred income taxes 9,020 9,020

TOTAL LIABILITIES 28,265 26,265 (2,000)

Share capital 5,000 5,000 –

Revaluation surplus – – –

Retained earnings 39,685 17,135

TOTAL LIABILITIES/EQUITY 72,950 48,400

TEMPORARY DIFFERENCES 22,550

Deferred tax liability 24,550 at 40% 9,820

Deferred tax asset (2,000 at 40%) (800)

Net deferred tax liability 9,020

Less: Opening deferred tax liability (8,600)

Deferred tax expense (income) related to the

origination and reversal of temporary differences 420

Deferred tax assets, liabilities and expense at 31/12/X6

Carrying Temporary
amount Tax base differences

Accounts receivable 500 500 –

Inventory 2,000 2,000 –

© IASCF 37
Deferred tax assets, liabilities and expense at 31/12/X6

Product development costs – – –

Investments 33,000 33,000 –

Property, plant & equipment 75,750 16,050 59,700

TOTAL ASSETS 111,250 51,550 59,700

Current income taxes payable 2,359 2,359 –

Accounts payable 500 500 –

Fines payable 700 700

Liability for healthcare benefits 3,000 – (3,000)

Long-term debt 12,805 12,805 –

Deferred income taxes 19,845 19,845 –

TOTAL LIABILITIES 39,209 36,209 (3,000)

Share capital 5,000 5,000 –

Revaluation surplus 19,637 – –

Retained earnings 47,404 10,341

TOTAL LIABILITIES/EQUITY 111,250 51,550

TEMPORARY DIFFERENCES 56,700

Deferred tax liability 59,700 at

35% 20,895

Deferred tax asset (3,000 at

35%) (1,050)

Net deferred tax liability 19,845

Less: Opening deferred tax liability (9,020)

Adjustment to opening deferred tax liability resulting from reduction 22,550 at

in tax rate 5% 1,127

38 © IASCF
Deferred tax assets, liabilities and expense at 31/12/X6

Deferred tax attributable to revaluation surplus 31,800 at

35% (11,130)

Deferred tax expense (income) related to the origination and

reversal of temporary differences 822

Illustrative disclosure
The amounts to be disclosed in accordance with the Standard are as follows:
Major components of tax expense (income) (paragraph 79)

X5 X6

Current tax expense 3,570 2,359

Deferred tax expense relating to the origination and reversal of temporary

differences: 420 822

Deferred tax expense (income) resulting from reduction in tax rate – (1,127)

Tax expense 3,990 2,054

Income tax relating to the components of other comprehensive income (paragraph 81(ab))

Deferred tax relating to revaluation of building – (11,130)

In addition, deferred tax of 557 was transferred in X6 from retained earnings to revaluation reserve. This relates
to the difference between the actual depreciation on the building and equivalent depreciation based on the cost of
the building.
Explanation of the relationship between tax expense and accounting profit (paragraph 81(c))
The Standard permits two alternative methods of explaining the relationship between tax expense (income) and
accounting profit. Both of these formats are illustrated below.

(i) a numerical reconciliation between tax expense (income) and the product of accounting profit
multiplied by the applicable tax rate(s), disclosing also the basis on which the applicable tax rate(s) is
(are) computed

X5 X6

Accounting profit 8,775 8,740

Tax at the applicable tax rate of 35% (X5: 40%) 3,510 3,059

Tax effect of expenses that are not deductible in determining taxable profit:

Charitable donations 200 122

© IASCF 39
 Fines for environmental pollution 280 –

Reduction in opening deferred taxes resulting from reduction in tax rate – (1,127)

Tax expense 3,990 2,054

The applicable tax rate is the aggregate of the national income tax rate of 30% (X5: 35%) and the local
income tax rate of 5%.
(ii) a numerical reconciliation between the average effective tax rate and the applicable tax rate, disclosing
also the basis on which the applicable tax rate is computed

X5 X6

% %

Applicable tax rate 40.0 35.0

Tax effect of expenses that are not deductible for tax purposes:

Charitable donations 2.3 1.4

Fines for environmental pollution 3.2 –

Effect on opening deferred taxes of reduction in tax rate – (12.9)

Average effective tax rate (tax expense divided by profit before tax) 45.5 23.5

The applicable tax rate is the aggregate of the national income tax rate of 30% (X5: 35%) and the local
income tax rate of 5%.
An explanation of changes in the applicable tax rate(s) compared to the previous accounting period
(paragraph 81(d))
In X6, the government enacted a change in the national income tax rate from 35% to 30%.
In respect of each type of temporary difference, and in respect of each type of unused tax losses and
unused tax credits:
(i) the amount of the deferred tax assets and liabilities recognised in the statement of financial
position for each period presented;
(ii) the amount of the deferred tax income or expense recognised in profit or loss for each period
presented, if this is not apparent from the changes in the amounts recognised in the statement of
financial position (paragraph 81(g))

40 © IASCF
 X5 X6

Accelerated depreciation for tax purposes 9,720 10,322

Liabilities for healthcare benefits that are deducted for tax purposes only when
paid (800) (1,050)

Product development costs deducted from taxable profit in earlier years 100 –

Revaluation, net of related depreciation – 10,573

Deferred tax liability 9,020 19,845

(note: the amount of the deferred tax income or expense recognised in profit or loss for the current year is
apparent from the changes in the amounts recognised in the statement of financial position)

Example 3 – Business combinations

On 1 January X5 entity A acquired 100 per cent of the shares of entity B at a cost of 600. At the acquisition date,
the tax base in A’s tax jurisdiction of A’s investment in B is 600. Reductions in the carrying amount of goodwill
are not deductible for tax purposes, and the cost of the goodwill would also not be deductible if B were to
dispose of its underlying business. The tax rate in A’s tax jurisdiction is 30 per cent and the tax rate in B’s tax
jurisdiction is 40 per cent.
The fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed (excluding deferred tax assets and
liabilities) by A is set out in the following table, together with their tax bases in B’s tax jurisdiction and the
resulting temporary differences.

Amount
recognised
at Temporary
acquisition Tax base differences

Property, plant and equipment 270 155 115

Accounts receivable 210 210 –

Inventory 174 124 50

Retirement benefit obligations (30) – (30)

Accounts payable (120) (120) –

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, excluding

deferred tax 504 369 135

The deferred tax asset arising from the retirement benefit obligations is offset against the deferred tax liabilities
arising from the property, plant and equipment and inventory (see paragraph 74 of the Standard).
No deduction is available in B’s tax jurisdiction for the cost of the goodwill. Therefore, the tax base of the
goodwill in B’s jurisdiction is nil. However, in accordance with paragraph 15(a) of the Standard, A recognises no
deferred tax liability for the taxable temporary difference associated with the goodwill in B’s tax jurisdiction.

© IASCF 41
The carrying amount, in A’s consolidated financial statements, of its investment in B is made up as follows:

Fair value of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, excluding deferred tax 504

Deferred tax liability (135 at 40%) (54)

Fair value of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed 450

Goodwill 150

Carrying amount 600

Because, at the acquisition date, the tax base in A’s tax jurisdiction, of A’s investment in B is 600, no temporary
difference is associated in A’s tax jurisdiction with the investment.
During X5, B’s equity (incorporating the fair value adjustments made as a result of the business combination)
changed as follows:

At 1 January X5 450

Retained profit for X5 (net profit of 150, less dividend payable of 80) 70

At 31 December X5 520

A recognises a liability for any withholding tax or other taxes that it will incur on the accrued dividend receivable
of 80.
At 31 December X5, the carrying amount of A’s underlying investment in B, excluding the accrued dividend
receivable, is as follows:

Net assets of B 520

Goodwill 150

Carrying amount 670

The temporary difference associated with A’s underlying investment is 70. This amount is equal to the
cumulative retained profit since the acquisition date.
If A has determined that it will not sell the investment in the foreseeable future and that B will not distribute its
retained profits in the foreseeable future, no deferred tax liability is recognised in relation to A’s investment in B
(see paragraphs 39 and 40 of the Standard). Note that this exception would apply for an investment in an
associate only if there is an agreement requiring that the profits of the associate will not be distributed in the
foreseeable future (see paragraph 42 of the Standard). A discloses the amount of the temporary difference for
which no deferred tax is recognised, ie 70 (see paragraph 81(f) of the Standard).
If A expects to sell the investment in B, or that B will distribute its retained profits in the foreseeable future, A
recognises a deferred tax liability to the extent that the temporary difference is expected to reverse. The tax rate
reflects the manner in which A expects to recover the carrying amount of its investment (see paragraph 51 of the
Standard). A recognises the deferred tax in other comprehensive income to the extent that the deferred tax results
from foreign exchange translation differences that have been recognised in other comprehensive income
(paragraph 61A of the Standard). A discloses separately:
(a) the amount of deferred tax that has been recognised in other comprehensive income (paragraph 81(ab)
of the Standard); and

42 © IASCF
(b) the amount of any remaining temporary difference which is not expected to reverse in the foreseeable
future and for which, therefore, no deferred tax is recognised (see paragraph 81(f) of the Standard).

Example 4 – Compound financial instruments

An entity receives a non-interest-bearing convertible loan of 1,000 on 31 December X4 repayable at par on 1
January X8. In accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation the entity classifies the instrument’s
liability component as a liability and the equity component as equity. The entity assigns an initial carrying
amount of 751 to the liability component of the convertible loan and 249 to the equity component. Subsequently,
the entity recognises imputed discount as interest expense at an annual rate of 10% on the carrying amount of the
liability component at the beginning of the year. The tax authorities do not allow the entity to claim any
deduction for the imputed discount on the liability component of the convertible loan. The tax rate is 40%.
The temporary differences associated with the liability component and the resulting deferred tax liability and
deferred tax expense and income are as follows:

Year

X4 X5 X6 X7

Carrying amount of liability component 751 826 909 1,000

Tax base 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000

Taxable temporary difference 249 174 91 –

Opening deferred tax liability at 40% 0 100 70 37

Deferred tax charged to equity 100 – – –

Deferred tax expense (income) – (30) (33) (37)

Closing deferred tax liability at 40% 100 70 37 –

As explained in paragraph 23 of the Standard, at 31 December X4, the entity recognises the resulting deferred tax
liability by adjusting the initial carrying amount of the equity component of the convertible liability. Therefore,
the amounts recognised at that date are as follows:

Liability component 751

Deferred tax liability 100

Equity component (249 less 100) 149

1,000

© IASCF 43
Subsequent changes in the deferred tax liability are recognised in profit or loss as tax income (see paragraph 23
of the Standard). Therefore, the entity’s profit or loss includes the following:

Year

X4 X5 X6 X7

Interest expense (imputed discount) – 75 83 91

Deferred tax expense (income) – (30) (33) (37)

– 45 50 54

Example 5 – Share-based payment transactions

In accordance with IFRS 2 Share-based Payment, an entity has recognised an expense for the consumption of
employee services received as consideration for share options granted. A tax deduction will not arise until the
options are exercised, and the deduction is based on the options’ intrinsic value at exercise date.
As explained in paragraph 68B of the Standard, the difference between the tax base of the employee services
received to date (being the amount the taxation authorities will permit as a deduction in future periods in respect
of those services), and the carrying amount of nil, is a deductible temporary difference that results in a deferred
tax asset. Paragraph 68B requires that, if the amount the taxation authorities will permit as a deduction in future
periods is not known at the end of the period, it should be estimated, based on information available at the end of
the period. If the amount that the taxation authorities will permit as a deduction in future periods is dependent
upon the entity’s share price at a future date, the measurement of the deductible temporary difference should be
based on the entity’s share price at the end of the period. Therefore, in this example, the estimated future tax
deduction (and hence the measurement of the deferred tax asset) should be based on the options’ intrinsic value
at the end of the period.
As explained in paragraph 68C of the Standard, if the tax deduction (or estimated future tax deduction) exceeds
the amount of the related cumulative remuneration expense, this indicates that the tax deduction relates not only
to remuneration expense but also to an equity item. In this situation, paragraph 68C requires that the excess of the
associated current or deferred tax should be recognised directly in equity.
The entity’s tax rate is 40 per cent. The options were granted at the start of year 1, vested at the end of year 3 and
were exercised at the end of year 5. Details of the expense recognised for employee services received and
consumed in each accounting period, the number of options outstanding at each year-end, and the intrinsic value
of the options at each year-end, are as follows:

Employee services Number of options at Intrinsic value per

expense year-end option

Year 1 188,000 50,000 5

Year 2 185,000 45,000 8

Year 3 190,000 40,000 13

Year 4 0 40,000 17

Year 5 0 40,000 20

44 © IASCF
The entity recognises a deferred tax asset and deferred tax income in years 1–4 and current tax income in year 5
as follows. In years 4 and 5, some of the deferred and current tax income is recognised directly in equity, because
the estimated (and actual) tax deduction exceeds the cumulative remuneration expense.

Year 1

Deferred tax asset and deferred tax income:

(50,000 × 5 × 1/3a × 0.40) = 33,333

a The tax base of the employee services received is based on the intrinsic value of the options, and those
options were granted for three years’ services. Because only one year’s services have been received to
date, it is necessary to multiply the option’s intrinsic value by one-third to arrive at the tax base of the
employee services received in year 1.

The deferred tax income is all recognised in profit or loss, because the estimated future tax deduction of 83,333
(50,000 × 5 × 1/3) is less than the cumulative remuneration expense of 188,000.

Year 2

Deferred tax asset at year-end:

(45,000 × 8 × 2/3 × 0.40) = 96,000

Less deferred tax asset at start of year (33,333)

Deferred tax income for year 62,667 *

* This amount consists of the following:

Deferred tax income for the temporary difference between the tax base of
the employee services received during the year and their carrying amount of
nil:

(45,000 × 8 × 1/3 × 0.40) 48,000

Tax income resulting from an adjustment to the tax base of employee

services received in previous years:

(a) increase in intrinsic value: (45,000 × 3 × 1/3 × 0.40) 18,000

(b) decrease in number of options: (5,000 × 5 × 1/3 × 0.40) (3,333)

Deferred tax income for year 62,667

© IASCF 45
The deferred tax income is all recognised in profit or loss, because the estimated future tax deduction of 240,000
(45,000 × 8 × 2/3) is less than the cumulative remuneration expense of 373,000 (188,000 + 185,000).

Year 3

Deferred tax asset at year-end:

(40,000 × 13 × 0.40) = 208,000

Less deferred tax asset at start of year (96,000)

Deferred tax income for year 112,000

The deferred tax income is all recognised in profit or loss, because the estimated future tax deduction of 520,000
(40,000 × 13) is less than the cumulative remuneration expense of 563,000 (188,000 + 185,000 + 190,000).

Year 4

Deferred tax asset at year-end:

(40,000 × 17 × 0.40) = 272,000

Less deferred tax asset at start of year (208,000)

Deferred tax income for year 64,000

The deferred tax income is recognised partly in profit or loss and partly directly in
equity as follows:

Estimated future tax deduction (40,000 × 17) = 680,000

Cumulative remuneration expense 563,000

Excess tax deduction 117,000

Deferred tax income for year 64,000

Excess recognised directly in equity (117,000 × 0.40) = 46,800

Recognised in profit or loss

17,200

Year 5

Deferred tax expense (reversal of deferred tax asset) 272,000

46 © IASCF
Amount recognised directly in equity (reversal of cumulative deferred tax income
recognised directly in equity) 46,800

Amount recognised in profit or loss 225,200

Current tax income based on intrinsic value of options at exercise date (40,000 × 20
× 0.40) = 3 20,000

Amount recognised in profit or loss (563,000 × 0.40) = 225,200

Amount recognised directly in equity

94,800

Summary

Statement of financial
Statement of comprehensive income position

Employee Current tax Deferred tax Total tax Equity Deferred tax
services expense expense expense asset
expense (income) (income) (income)

Year 1 188,000 0 (33,333) (33,333) 0 33,333

Year 2 185,000 0 (62,667) (62,667) 0 96,000

Year 3 190,000 0 (112,000) (112,000) 0 208,000

Year 4 0 0 (17,200) (17,200) (46,800) 272,000

Year 5 0 (225,200) 225,200 0 46,800 0

(94,800)

Totals 563,000 (225,200) 0 (225,200) (94,800) 0

Example 6 – Replacement awards in a business combination

On January 20X1 Entity A acquired 100 per cent of Entity B. Entity A pays cash consideration of CU400 to the
former owners of Entity B.
At the acquisition date Entity B had outstanding employee share options with a market-based measure of CU100.
The share options were fully vested. As part of the business combination Entity B’s outstanding share options are
replaced by share options of Entity A (replacement awards) with a market-based measure of CU100 and an
intrinsic value of CU80. The replacement awards are fully vested. In accordance with paragraphs B56–B62 of
IFRS 3 Business Combinations (as revised in 2008), the replacement awards are part of the consideration
transferred for Entity B. A tax deduction for the replacement awards will not arise until the options are exercised.
The tax deduction will be based on the share options’ intrinsic value at that date. Entity A’s tax rate is 40 per
cent. Entity A recognises a deferred tax asset of CU32 (CU80 intrinsic value × 40%) on the replacement awards
at the acquisition date.

© IASCF 47
Entity A measures the identifiable net assets obtained in the business combination (excluding deferred tax assets
and liabilities) at CU450. The tax base of the identifiable net assets obtained is CU300. Entity A recognises a
deferred tax liability of CU60 ((CU450 – CU300) × 40%) on the identifiable net assets at the acquisition date.
Goodwill is calculated as follows:

CU

Cash consideration
400

Market-based measure of replacement awards

100

Total consideration transferred

500

Identifiable net assets, excluding deferred tax assets and liabilities

(450)

Deferred tax asset

32

Deferred tax liability

60

Goodwill
78

Reductions in the carrying amount of goodwill are not deductible for tax purposes. In accordance with paragraph
15(a) of the Standard, Entity A recognises no deferred tax liability for the taxable temporary difference
associated with the goodwill recognised in the business combination.
The accounting entry for the business combination is as follows:

CU CU

Dr Goodwill 78

Dr Identifiable net assets 450

Dr Deferred tax asset 32

Cr Cash 400

Cr Equity (replacement awards) 100

Cr Deferred tax liability 60

On 31 December 20X1 the intrinsic value of the replacement awards is CU120. Entity A recognises a deferred
tax asset of CU48 (CU120 × 40%). Entity A recognises deferred tax income of CU16 (CU48 – CU32) from the
increase in the intrinsic value of the replacement awards. The accounting entry is as follows:

CU CU

Dr Deferred tax asset 16

48 © IASCF
 Cr Deferred tax income 16

If the replacement awards had not been tax-deductible under current tax law, Entity A would not have recognised
a deferred tax asset on the acquisition date. Entity A would have accounted for any subsequent events that result
in a tax deduction related to the replacement award in the deferred tax income or expense of the period in which
the subsequent event occurred.
Paragraphs B56–B62 of IFRS 3 provide guidance on determining which portion of a replacement award is part of
the consideration transferred in a business combination and which portion is attributable to future service and
thus a post-combination remuneration expense. Deferred tax assets and liabilities on replacement awards that are
post-combination expenses are accounted for in accordance with the general principles as illustrated in Example
5.

© IASCF 49