What are the reasons of under or over-absorption of overhead in Cost Accounting?

The under absorption or over absorption of overheads arises due to following reasons:

  • Error is estimating overhead expenses.
  • Unexpected charges in the methods of production affecting the amount of overheads.
  • Unanticipated changes in the production capacity.
  • Seasonal fluctuations in the overhead expenses from period to period.
  • Actual working hours may be more or less than hours anticipated.