Cash Accounting Method
In business, one may come across the cash accounting method, also known as cash-basis accounting, during the accounting period. The cash method of accounting is used where payments are recorded as revenues when cash is received, and expenses are recorded when cash is spent. This means that revenues can be registered in the financial statement during one accounting period, while expenses can be registered in the financial statement during another accounting period, regardless of the matching principle under generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). This situation limits the use of the cash accounting method to small businesses.
What is the Cash Accounting Method used for?
As one of the two basic methods of accounting, the cash accounting method is the simplest and less expensive of the two, perfect for the use of small businesses. The reason for that is the fact that it provides an accurate image of the business’ financial situation at that exact moment. It shows a company how much money they have on hand at that moment.
More prominent companies and corporations, however, are not allowed to use other accounting methods than the accrual method of accounting as it respects the generally accepted accounting principles. Small businesses are allowed to choose the type of accounting method they want to use. While the accrual method is more complex and expensive, the cash method can generate delays in the company’s books as it doesn’t give a broader picture of its financial situation.
Furthermore, the IRS prohibits using the cash accounting method for companies with an annual gross income of over $25 million, and the Tax Reform Act of 1986 forbids companies that have shareholders and partnerships from using it as well. It should be noted that the accounting method used for tax purposes must be the same as the one used for internal booking.
Popular Real Estate Terms
Rear lining of chimney. An acceptable chimney back lining can be achieved by plastering the interior surfaces of the chimney. A better alternative, however, is a manufactured lining of ...
The construction of a highway right way over a privately held parcel of land. Property owners are entitled to compensation for the value of the property usurped by a highway easement. See ...
Map presented to a municipality's planning agency by a real estate developer for consideration and approval. ...
The term effective interest rate is the actual return from a savings account or any investment where you pay interest when considering the effects of compounding costs over time. Through an ...
A married partner. Property may be jointly held by spouses. ...
The accrued interest definition can be explained through the interest collected by a set date on financial obligations that were not paid out. As interest can be of two types, so does ...
Counter action by a defendant against a plaintiff. It is an independent action and just a denial of plaintiff's action. ...
An agreement allowing occupancy of a premises for a stated period of time provided certain terms are met. A limited occupancy agreement is most frequently used when a prospective buyer is ...
Buyer who is acting in good faith, is not aware of any outstanding claims or rights of others to the property, and has given valuable consideration as part of the business transaction. ...
Have a question or comment?
We're here to help.