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Accrual Method

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Accrual Method
The difference between the accrual method of accounting and the cash basis method of accounting is when the transactions are recorded. When using the accounting method known as cash basis, transactions are recorded when money is actually received or paid out. When using the accrual method, transactions are recorded when they take place, regardless of when the money is actually received or paid out.
The accrual method of accounting gives a more accurate financial representation of the organization. The cash basis method can distort from what has actually happened. For example if a lot of money has been collected but bills have not been paid, it will show a high amount of income. By using the accrual method, income can be matched to an expense.
In the accrual method of accounting, revenue does not equal cash. This is because cash movements generally depend on the receipt of revenue (payments from clients; deposits) and checks written. Cash accounts are related to cash basis while on the other hand revenue on accrual systems are not. Cash basis is based on payment, payment of client invoices, while revenue (and expenses) on the accrual method is based on the period in which it is earned.
The statement of cash flow is important in the financial management of an organization because it allows the organization to monitor its cash position while also illustrating the incoming and outgoing cash flow. Through extracting information from balance sheets and transferring those to the cash flow statement, the organization can be kept informed of how finances are being disbursed in and out of the

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