Deferred Tax Liability vs Deferred Tax Asset
Basis |
Deferred Tax Liability (DTL) |
|
---|---|---|
Definition |
It refers to the potential tax benefits that a company has earned but is yet to use it. |
It is the amount of taxes that a company will likely have to pay in the future due to differences between accounting and tax rules. |
Reasons |
Arises from tax-deductible items or losses that can be used to reduce taxable income in the future. |
Arises from taxable items or income mentioned in the financial statements but not yet taxable according to the tax rules. |
Effect on Future Taxes |
Reduces future taxable income, leading to lower taxes. |
The future taxable income increases leading to higher taxes. |
Type of Balances in Balance Sheet |
Positive balance on the company’s balance sheet. |
Depicts a negative balance on the balance sheet of the company. |
Risk-taking Capacity |
May encourage companies to take risks and make long-term investments. |
Depends an obligation that may make companies more cautious about certain financial decisions. So, might or might not take risk. |
Impact of Timing Difference |
Reflects a timing difference that results in potential tax savings in the future. |
Reflects a timing difference that results in higher future tax payments. |
Example |
Losses carried forward, tax credits, or deductible expenses not used immediately. |
Revenue or gains recognized in financial statements but not yet taxed. |