Understanding the Acquisition Cost of an Item of Purchased Equipment

Definition & Meaning

The acquisition cost of an item of purchased equipment refers to the total expense incurred to acquire that equipment. This includes the net invoice price, as well as any costs associated with modifications, attachments, or accessories that are necessary to make the equipment usable for its intended purpose. Additionally, other expenses such as installation, transportation, taxes, duties, or insurance during transit may be included or excluded from this cost, depending on the accounting practices of the grantee.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A local government purchases a new fire truck for $300,000. The acquisition cost includes the purchase price, modifications for emergency response, and transportation fees, totaling $350,000.

Example 2: A school district buys computers for $50,000. The acquisition cost includes the computers' price and installation fees, amounting to $55,000. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Acquisition Cost Considerations
California May include additional environmental compliance costs.
Texas Installation costs may be treated differently under state grant guidelines.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Capital Expenditure Funds used by a company to acquire or upgrade physical assets. Acquisition cost focuses specifically on the purchase price and necessary costs to make the item usable.
Operating Expense Costs for running a company's daily operations. Operating expenses do not include acquisition costs, which are one-time expenses.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in purchasing equipment, ensure you accurately calculate the total acquisition cost, including all relevant expenses. Consider using US Legal Forms for templates that can help you document these costs correctly. If your situation is complex, seeking professional legal assistance may be advisable.

Quick facts

  • Typical fees: Varies based on equipment and modifications
  • Jurisdiction: Applicable in federal and state grant contexts
  • Potential penalties: Misreporting acquisition costs can lead to grant disqualification

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The acquisition cost includes the purchase price, modifications, and necessary accessories, as well as installation and transportation costs, depending on accounting practices.