Home › difference between › revenue and capital expenditure

Revenue Expenditure vs Capital Expenditure — Difference (with Table & FAQs)

Revenue expenditure is spending on current consumption and running government. Capital expenditure is spending on creating productive assets and infrastruc

✓ 100% Free ✓ No Login Needed ✓ NCERT / CBSE Aligned ✓ Download as PDF

TL;DR: Revenue expenditure is spending on current consumption and running government. Capital expenditure is spending on creating productive assets and infra…

Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated Jul 23, 2026

🤖 Stuck on any question? Ask Syllab's free AI Tutor for a step-by-step explanation — instant, unlimited, no login.

The main difference between Revenue Expenditure and Capital Expenditure: Revenue expenditure is spending on current consumption and running government. Capital expenditure is spending on creating productive assets and infrastruc

Revenue Expenditure vs Capital Expenditure — Comparison Table

BasisRevenue ExpenditureCapital Expenditure
NatureCurrent period spendingLong-term investment
Benefit PeriodConsumed in same yearBenefits multiple years
Asset CreationDoes not create assetsCreates productive assets
ExampleSalaries, supplies, utilitiesBuilding roads, dams, schools
ImpactReduces current budget surplusIncreases national wealth
DepreciationNot applicableAssets depreciate over time

Key Points

  • Revenue expenditure is necessary for daily government operations
  • Capital expenditure creates infrastructure for future growth
  • Both are essential for balanced government budget
  • Capital expenditure has long-term economic benefits

More Social Science Comparisons

  • Difference Between Communism and Capitalism
  • Difference Between Democracy and Dictatorship
  • Difference Between Rural and Urban
  • Difference Between Import and Export
  • Difference Between Microeconomics and Macroeconomics
  • Difference Between Fundamental Rights and Fundamental Duties

See all difference-between comparisons →

Explore:

  • Syllabus
  • Practice
  • Mock Tests
  • NCERT Solutions
  • Coding
  • GK Quiz
  • Career Predictor
  • AI Tutor
  • Live Quiz
  • Doubt Solver
  • Microlearning
  • Free Alternatives
  • Kids Zone
  • Study Room
  • Calculators
  • Worksheets

Syllab.in — Free learning for Indian students, Class 1–12