Consistent with the Statements of Financial Accounting Concepts (SFAC), U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP) require the capitalization of costs when a future benefit for the expenditure exists. In some cases, such as the purchase of equipment, the decision to capitalize is straightforward. However, there are situations in which that decision is not as clear. Capitalization questions arise in multiple areas. This report accumulates professional guidance related to capitalization in the following areas:
Repairs and maintenance
Internally developed intangible assets
Patent defense costs
Start-up costs
Contract costs
Advertising costs
Website development costs