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SLN Function
Summary
The Excel SLN function calculates straight-line depreciation for an asset over a specified period, providing a consistent annual depreciation expense based on the difference between initial cost and salvage value.
Syntax
SLN(cost, salvage, life)Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| cost | Number |
Yes | Initial cost of the asset (purchase price) |
| salvage | Number |
Yes | Salvage value at end of useful life |
| life | Number |
Yes | Useful life in periods (years, months, etc.) |
Using the SLN Function
SLN delivers fixed annual depreciation amounts, ideal for financial statements and tax calculations where straight-line method is required. Perfect for assets with consistent usage patterns like office equipment, vehicles, or buildings.
Common SLN Examples
Basic Depreciation Calculation
=SLN(30000, 7500, 10)Depreciates $30,000 asset with $7,500 salvage value over 10 years ($2,250 annual)
Monthly Depreciation
=SLN(50000, 5000, 60)Monthly depreciation for 5-year equipment lease ($750/month)
Cell Reference Example
=SLN(A2, B2, C2)Uses Cost in A2, Salvage in B2, Life in C2
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
#VALUE! error
Cause: Non-numeric values in parameters
Solution: Ensure cost, salvage, and life contain numbers
#NUM! error
Cause: Life parameter equals zero or negative
Solution: Use positive number for useful life
Unexpected result
Cause: Life in wrong time units
Solution: Match life units with desired period (years for annual, months for monthly)
Notes
- Formula: (Cost - Salvage) / Life
- Rounds to nearest cent automatically
- Works with years, months, or any consistent period
- Available in all modern Excel versions
Compatibility
Available in: Excel 2007, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365
Not available in:
Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2007+