Impairment indicator
At each reporting date, assess external and internal indicators under IAS 36. Examples include significant adverse market changes, physical damage or evidence that economic performance is worse than expected. If an indication exists, estimate recoverable amount and recognise any required impairment loss. Goodwill, indefinite-life intangible assets and intangible assets not yet available for use require annual impairment testing even without an indicator, under the standard’s rules.
Worked example
A flood damages a machine with a carrying amount of $100,000. The damage is an impairment indicator, so the entity estimates recoverable amount. If that amount is $75,000, it recognises a $25,000 impairment loss subject to applicable rules.
Common mistake
Recording an impairment loss equal to repair costs without measuring recoverable amount, or testing goodwill only when an indicator appears.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | FR | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
| ACCA | SBR | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
