Scf-Direct and Indirect Methods

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SCF-Direct and Indirect Methods SCF-Direct and Indirect Methods A company may use a direct or indirect method to record cash flow and convert net income from accrual to a cash. The Financial Accounting Board allows both presentation methods of cash flows since both are appropriate depending on the company, both methods arrive to the same total amount. The main difference between direct and indirect methods is the way each method arrives to the amount and how it breaks down operating activities. The direct method of cash flow includes more details on operating activities; this method is also used to settle net income and cash from operating expenses. I believe the direct method is a better way for a business to keep track of cash flow because it accounts for every operating activity. This method may not be convenient for every company but it accounts for every receipt and payment, providing the company more details on each cash transaction. The indirect method is easier and it may be less expensive, it is focus on the difference between net income and cash flow from operating expenses. (Weygandt, Kimmel, & Kieso, 2010. p 618). This method converts net income to net cash from operating activities. When using the indirect method a company must convert net income to net cash by gathering net income and adding or subtracting adjustments, this would give the company the Net cash, without having to go thru detail transactions. . Even though the indirect method may be easier for a company to manage their cash flow, I believe that this method may bring more work in case of an audit. (Weygandt, Kimmel, & Kieso, 2010. p 618). The indirect method does not provide details on transactions and this can make difficult for a business to account for operating activities when there is a question. Reference Weygandt, J. J., Kimmel, P. D., & Kieso, D.

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