Answer:
The remaining useful life of the asset is = 10 - 3 = 7 years
Explanation:
The straight line method of depreciation charges a constant depreciation expense through out the useful life of the asset. The formula for depreciation expense under this method is,
Depreciation expense = (Cost - Salvage value) / Estimated useful life of the asset
Plugging in the values for depreciation expense per year, cost and salvage value, we can calculate the total expected life of the asset.
5000 = (53000 - 3000) / estimated useful life of the asset
estimated useful life of the asset = 50000 / 5000
estimated useful life of the asset = 10 years
As the accumulated depreciation balance is of 15000, the depreciation for 15000/5000 = 3years has been charged.
The remaining useful life of the asset is = 10 - 3 = 7 years