Accrual Basis vs Cash Basis Accounting

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Accrual Basis vs. Cash Basis Accounting ACC 290 Accrual Basis vs. Cash Basis Accounting Cash basis and accrual basis accounting are two principle accounting methods used for keeping track of the income and expenses related to a business. When using the cash basis method, the income is not recorded until actual cash or payment is received and expenses are also not recorded until they are actually paid for. On the other hand when using the accrual basis method, transactions are recorded as soon as the order is made or services rendered, regardless if payment is actually received at the time. The main difference between these two methods is the timing in which the transactions are debited and credited to accounts (Kimmel, Weygandt, & Kieso, 2009). There are certain criteria to consider when deciding which method of accounting should be used for a business. The accrual method must be used if a business has sales of more than five million annually, or if they stock an inventory of items that when sold to the public creates gross receipts over one million per year. Although a business is entitled to decide which method best suits their needs, due to certain guidelines there are times accrual basis accounting is the only option. Regardless of the method selected there are benefits to both options for a business. The benefits of accrual basis accounting include equal distribution of expenses paid in advance and in arrears. Cash basis accounting is beneficial to smaller businesses especially when the company does not have to maintain an inventory, there are no customer accounts of returns, and when most of the sales are cash sales. This method of accounting is typically easier and cheaper to maintain. Although there are numerous benefits to both options the business must determine which method is best for them and that is usually based off the

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