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Multiple Choice
Which of the following represents an obligation of the company?
A
Retained Earnings
B
Common Stock
C
Sales Revenue
D
Accounts Payable
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of an obligation: In financial accounting, an obligation refers to a liability or a responsibility that the company owes to an external party, typically requiring future payment or service.
Analyze each option: Retained Earnings represent accumulated profits that are reinvested in the company and are part of equity, not a liability. Common Stock represents ownership in the company and is also part of equity. Sales Revenue is income earned from selling goods or services and is part of the income statement, not a liability.
Focus on Accounts Payable: Accounts Payable is a liability account that represents amounts the company owes to suppliers or creditors for goods or services received but not yet paid for. This is a clear example of an obligation.
Relate Accounts Payable to the definition of an obligation: Since Accounts Payable requires the company to settle its debts in the future, it fits the definition of an obligation.
Conclude that Accounts Payable is the correct answer because it represents a liability, unlike the other options which are equity or revenue accounts.