If bonds are sold for a discount, the carrying amount of the bonds is equal to the face value less the unamortized discount.

When bonds are sold for a discount, the carrying amount of the bonds is equal to the face value less the unamortized discount. This means that the bond's original face value is reduced by the discount amount that was given to the purchaser. This discount is then amortized over the life of the bond and added to the carrying amount each period until the bond reaches its maturity date.