Using the TR = TC rule
The break even quantity can be calculated by comparing total sales revenue with total costs. Therefore:
Using the contribution per unit rule
The quickest method
Interpretation of a break-even chart
Look at a chart and estimate the level of break-even.
Other uses of break-even charts include:
Target profit: how many units of output need to be produced to generate a certain level of profit?
Break-even price: how much do we need to charge for out product in order to break-even?
Price needed to reach a target profit: what price does a business need to charge in order to reach a target rate of profit?
Margin of safety
The margin of safety is the range of output between the break-even output and the current level of output (assuming this level of output is above the break-even point), over which profit is made. Business would want to calculate their margin of safety in order to know by how much sales could fall before a loss is made. Naturally, the larger the margin of safety the better. We calculate it by subtracting the break-even output from the current level of output.
Margin of safety = Current level of output − Break-even output
Break-Even Point FAQs
What is the break-even point?
The break-even point (BEP) is the level of sales (either in units or revenue) where a business's total revenues equal its total expenses. At this point, the business is neither making a profit nor incurring a loss. It's the minimum activity needed to cover all costs.
What is the formula for determining the break-even point in units?
The formula for calculating the break-even point in units is:
Break-Even Point (Units) = Fixed Costs ÷ (Selling Price Per Unit - Variable Cost Per Unit)
The denominator, (Selling Price Per Unit - Variable Cost Per Unit), is also known as the Contribution Margin Per Unit.
What is the formula for determining the break-even point in sales dollars (revenue)?
The formula for calculating the break-even point in sales dollars is:
Break-Even Point (Sales $) = Fixed Costs ÷ Contribution Margin Ratio
The Contribution Margin Ratio is calculated as (Sales Revenue - Variable Costs) ÷ Sales Revenue, or alternatively, (Selling Price Per Unit - Variable Cost Per Unit) ÷ Selling Price Per Unit.
How do you determine the break-even point?
To determine the break-even point, you typically follow these steps:
- Identify your fixed costs (rent, salaries, insurance, etc. - costs that don't change with sales volume).
- Identify your variable costs per unit (materials, direct labor per unit, commissions - costs that change directly with each unit sold).
- Determine your selling price per unit.
- Use the appropriate formula (units or sales dollars) with these figures to calculate the BEP.
What is the significance of determining a company's break-even point?
Calculating the break-even point is significant because it:
- Helps assess the profitability and financial health of a business or product.
- Provides insights for pricing strategies.
- Assists in setting realistic sales targets and production levels.
- Aids in budgeting and financial planning.
- Helps understand the cost structure and impact of cost changes.
- Is crucial for evaluating the viability of new ventures or products.