Problem 9: Change in depreciation estimates

Universal Tools Company purchased a machine on July 1, 2015 for $180,000. The machine was estimated to have a useful life of 10 years and a salvage value of $20,000. The companys fiscal year ends on December 31.

Required:

1. What was Universal Tools depreciation expense for 2015 and 2016 under the Double-declining balance method?

2. Suppose on Jan. 1, 2017, Universal Tools decided that the machines remaining useful life (starting from Jan. 1, 2017) was only 6 years and the salvage value was only $15,000, and that it was more appropriate to apply the straight-line depreciation method from then on. Calculate the depreciation expense for 2017.