Answer:
3 1/3 years
Explanation:
Payback period is the time required for the inflows from a project to be equal to the initial outflow for the project. It is a key consideration in capital budgeting. It is usually assumed that the outlay or initial outflow is made in year 0 and the first inflow comes in after a year.
Year Cash outflow Cash inflow Balance
0 ($50,000) - ($50,000)
1 - $15,000 ($35,000)
2 - $15,000 ($20,000)
3 - $15,000 ($5,000)
4 - $15,000 $10,000
5 - $15,000 $25,000
Hence the payback period
= 3 years and 5000/15000 * 12 months
= 3 years 4 months
= 3 1/3 years
