The useful life of a plant asset is:

• A. The period over which the asset is expected to be used by the company.
• B. The length of time until the asset is sold or disposed of.
• C. The period from the asset's purchase date to the end of the company's fiscal year.
• D. The time it takes for the asset to be fully depreciated according to tax regulations.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of 'useful life' in financial accounting: Useful life refers to the estimated period during which a company expects to use a plant asset to generate revenue. It is not necessarily tied to tax regulations or fiscal year-end dates.
2. Analyze the options provided in the problem: Evaluate each option to determine which aligns with the definition of useful life. For example, the useful life is not defined by the time until the asset is sold or disposed of, nor is it tied to the fiscal year-end.
3. Focus on the correct definition: The useful life is the period over which the asset is expected to be used by the company. This is the most accurate description based on accounting principles.
4. Clarify misconceptions: Useful life is distinct from the time it takes for an asset to be fully depreciated according to tax regulations. Depreciation schedules may vary, but they do not define the useful life of the asset.
5. Conclude with the correct understanding: The useful life is the period during which the company expects the asset to contribute to its operations, regardless of fiscal year-end or tax depreciation rules.