Investing activities refer to any transactions that directly affect long-term assets. This can include the purchase of a building, the sale of equipment, or investing in stocks. Once completed, these activities are then reported on a company’s cash flow statement. Anytime that the purchase of a long-term asset occurs, it reduces company cash flow from assets, while the sale of a long-term asset increases cash flow…
Understanding audit assertions and why they’re important
Assertions are claims made by business owners and managers that the information included in company financial statements — such as a balance sheet, income statement, and statement of cash flows — is accurate. These assertions are then tested by auditors and CPAs to verify their accuracy.
Why the post-closing trial balance is so important for your business
A post-closing trial balance is the final trial balance prepared before the new accounting period begins. Used to make sure that beginning balances are correct, the post-closing trial balance is also used to ensure that debits and credits remain in balance after closing entries have been completed.
How to calculate net profit margin for your business
We go into business to make money, so wouldn’t you want to know how much money you’re making? That’s why calculating net profit margin can be so useful. Net profit margin lets you see exactly how much money your business is making after all related expenses have been taken into account.
Why small business owners should always estimate an allowance for doubtful accounts (ADA)
An allowance for doubtful accounts is a contra asset account used by businesses to estimate the total amount of goods and services sold that they do not expect to receive payment for. Located on your balance sheet, the allowance for doubtful accounts is used to offset your accounts receivable account balance.
Deferred revenue: how to recognize it properly
If you’re using the accrual method of accounting, you’ll need to make sure that any revenue your business receives is recorded in accordance with the revenue recognition principle. This principle states that revenue should be recognized in the same period in which goods or services are provided.
In simpler terms, any...
Horizontal Analysis: Should You Be Using It in Your Business?
Horizontal analysis, also known as trend analysis, is used to spot financial trends over a specific number of accounting periods. Horizontal analysis can be used with an income statement or a balance sheet.
At least two accounting periods are required for a valid comparison, though in order to...