Why inventory valuation changes profit and tax
Inventory valuation decides the cost of goods still on the shelf and the cost of goods already sold. That split hits both the balance sheet and the income statement. IFRS IAS 2, Inventories is the IFRS standard for measuring inventories, generally at the lower of cost and net realizable value.
U.S. tax rules for inventory methods are set out in IRS Publication 538, Accounting Periods and Methods. FIFO, LIFO, and average cost can produce different profit in the same year when prices move. This calculator lets you see those cost-flow methods on your own purchase layers.
FIFO, LIFO, and weighted average, explained simply
- FIFO: oldest units are treated as sold first. Ending stock is closer to recent prices.
- LIFO: newest units are treated as sold first. Ending stock keeps older costs. LIFO is allowed in some U.S. settings and is not used under IFRS.
- Weighted average: one average unit cost is applied to both sold units and remaining units.
IFRS IAS 2, Inventories discusses cost formulas such as FIFO and weighted average. Confirm with your accountant which method your framework and tax office allow before you lock it in.
How to use this inventory valuation calculator
Name the item, choose currency and method, add purchase layers with date, quantity, and unit cost, then enter units sold. The tool shows ending inventory value and cost of goods sold.
This helper focuses on cost flow. Year-end financial statements may still need the lower of cost and net realizable value under IFRS IAS 2, Inventories. For ongoing stock and COGS in live books, try Adam by Tyms.