If a company reports tax depreciation on its financial statements, what must happen if the difference between tax and GAAP amounts is material?

When a company reports tax depreciation on its financial statements, a material difference between tax and GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) amounts necessitates an adjustment to depreciation expense. This need arises because financial statements must present an accurate and fair view of the company's financial condition. If the discrepancies are material—that is, significant enough to influence the decision-making of users of the financial statements—then simply reporting tax depreciation or ignoring the difference would not be appropriate.

Adjusting depreciation expense ensures that the financial statements comply with GAAP, which requires consistency and clarity. By making this adjustment, the company aligns its financial reporting with standard accounting practices and provides stakeholders with a true representation of its financial performance. This is crucial for maintaining transparency and trust with investors, creditors, and other interested parties, as the integrity of financial reporting can significantly impact a company's reputation and stock price.