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Multiple Choice
Which of the following explains why operating budgets generally span a period of one year?
A
Most companies cannot accurately forecast beyond one year due to legal restrictions.
B
A one-year period aligns with the company's fiscal year, allowing for effective planning and performance evaluation.
C
A one-year budget period is mandated by international accounting standards.
D
Operating budgets are limited by tax regulations that require annual reporting.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of an operating budget: An operating budget is a detailed projection of all estimated income and expenses based on forecasted sales revenue during a specific period.
Recognize the importance of the fiscal year: Most companies align their operating budgets with their fiscal year, which is typically one year long. This alignment allows for effective planning and performance evaluation within the same reporting period.
Consider the practical limitations of forecasting: Companies often find it challenging to accurately predict financial outcomes beyond one year due to uncertainties in market conditions, economic factors, and other variables.
Clarify the role of accounting standards: While international accounting standards provide guidelines for financial reporting, they do not mandate a one-year budget period. The one-year span is a practical choice rather than a regulatory requirement.
Understand the relationship with tax regulations: Tax regulations often require annual reporting, but they do not directly limit the operating budget period. The one-year period is chosen for alignment with fiscal and tax reporting cycles.