How the predetermined factory overhead rate can be used in job order cost accounting to assist managers in pricing jobs?

What is a Predetermined Overhead Rate?

A predetermined overhead rate is an allocation rate that is used to apply the estimated cost of manufacturing overhead to cost objects for a specific reporting period. This rate is frequently used to assist in closing the books more quickly, since it avoids the compilation of actual manufacturing overhead costs as part of the period-end closing process. However, the difference between the actual and estimated amounts of overhead must be reconciled at least at the end of each fiscal year.

Larger organizations may employ a different predetermined overhead rate in each production department, which tends to improve the accuracy of overhead application by employing a higher level of precision. However, the use of multiple predetermined overhead rates also increases the amount of required accounting labor.

How to Calculate a Predetermined Overhead Rate

The predetermined rate is derived using the following calculation:

Estimated amount of manufacturing overhead to be incurred in the period ÷ Estimated allocation base for the period

A number of possible allocation bases are available for the denominator, such as direct labor hours, direct labor dollars, and machine hours.

Example of a Predetermined Overhead Rate

The controller of the Gertrude Radio Company wants to develop a predetermined overhead rate, which she can use to apply overhead more quickly in each reporting period, thereby allowing for a faster closing process. For this calculation, she uses the average manufacturing overhead cost for the past three months, and divides by the estimated amount of machine hours to be used in the current month, based on the most recent production schedule for the period. This results in $50,000 being allocated to inventory in the period. A later analysis reveals that the actual amount that should have been assigned to inventory is $48,000, so the $2,000 difference is charged to the cost of goods sold.

Problems with Predetermined Overhead Rates

There are several concerns with using a predetermined overhead rate, which include are noted below.

Overhead Rate is Not Realistic

Since both the numerator and denominator of the calculation are comprised of estimates, it is possible that the result will not bear much resemblance to the actual overhead rate.

Sales and Production Decisions are Faulty

If sales and production decisions are being made based in part on the predetermined overhead rate, and the rate is inaccurate, then so too will be the decisions.

Variance Recognition Problems

The difference between the actual and predetermined amounts of overhead could be charged to expense in the current period, which may create a material change in the amount of profit and inventory asset reported.

The use of historical information to derive the amount of manufacturing overhead may not apply if there is a sudden spike or decline in these costs.

Discuss how the predetermined factory overhead rate can be used in job order cost accounting to assist management in pricing jobs.

How the predetermined factory overhead rate can be used in job order cost accounting to assist managers in pricing jobs?

How the predetermined factory overhead rate can be used in job order cost accounting to assist managers in pricing jobs?

How the predetermined factory overhead rate can be used in job order cost accounting to assist managers in pricing jobs?

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    How is predetermined overhead rate used in Job Order Costing?

    Factory overhead costs are allocated to jobs in process using a predetermined overhead rate. The predetermined overhead rate is determined by estimating (during the budget process) total factory overhead costs and dividing these total costs by direct labor hours or direct labor dollars.

    How is the predetermined overhead rate used to apply manufacturing overhead to jobs?

    You can calculate predetermined overhead rate by dividing the manufacturing overhead cost by the activity driver. For example, if the activity driver was machine-hours, then you would divide overhead costs by the estimated number of machine hours.

    Why does Job Order cost accounting require a predetermined overhead rate?

    A predetermined overhead rate makes reconciling the overhead account much easier. Most often, the overhead account will reflect a credit balance or a debit balance. A credit balance indicates predetermined overhead was over-applied and a debit balance indicates predetermined overhead was under-applied.