The actual cash value of an item is calculated as:

The actual cash value (ACV) of an item is determined by taking the replacement cost of that item and subtracting depreciation. This approach reflects the current worth of an item, considering not only what it would cost to replace the item but also accounting for its wear and tear over time.

When calculating ACV, the replacement cost represents the amount it would cost to replace the item with a similar one at current prices. However, simply using replacement cost does not provide an accurate reflection of the value after the item has aged or has lost functionality. By subtracting depreciation, which represents the reduction in value due to age, condition, and obsolescence, one arrives at a figure that truly represents what the item is worth now, as opposed to what it would cost to buy a new version of the item.

This method is widely used in crop insurance and other types of property insurance, as it provides a fair estimation of property value at the time of a loss.