Quick Answer

SLN Function

Calculates straight-line depreciation of an asset for one period.

Syntax

SLN

(cost, salvage, life)

Parameters

Parameter	Description	Required
cost	Initial cost of the asset.	Required
salvage	Value at the end of the depreciation life.	Required
life	Number of periods over which the asset is depreciated.	Required

Basic Example

Annual depreciation of equipment

=SLN(10000, 2000, 5)

Result$1,600.00

A $10,000 asset with a $2,000 salvage value and 5-year life depreciates $1,600 per year.

Advanced Examples

Example 1: Monthly depreciation

Asset accounting

Monthly straight-line depreciation

=SLN(12000, 2000, 60)

Result: $166.67

Same asset depreciated over 60 months.

How SLN Works

SLN subtracts salvage value from cost and divides the result by the asset life. This gives the same depreciation amount every period.

1

Enter cost

Type the cost

2

Enter salvage

Type the salvage

3

Enter life

Type the life

4

Calculate

Press Enter to get the result.

Important Notes & Limitations

Assumes constant depreciation each period.
Does not account for accelerated depreciation methods.
Life must be in the same units as the desired output (years, months, etc.).

Common Errors & Fixes

#DIV/0! errorLife is zero.

Fix: Ensure life is greater than zero.

Negative depreciationSalvage value is greater than cost.

Fix: Verify that salvage value is less than or equal to cost.

Download Practice File

Practice SLN with Real Data

Download a sample CSV file with pre-populated data and practice exercises for the SLN function. Works in both Excel and Google Sheets.

Works in Google SheetsCompatible with ExcelIncludes exercises

File format: CSV (comma-separated values) - opens in Excel, Google Sheets, and all spreadsheet apps

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AMORLINC

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COUPDAYBS

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COUPDAYS

Calculates the number of days in the coupon period that contains the settlement date.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between SLN and SYD?

SLN uses straight-line depreciation. SYD uses sum-of-years-digits accelerated depreciation.

Can SLN produce fractional periods?

No, SLN returns the same amount for each full period.