Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a characteristic of accounts receivable?
A
They are always supported by a formal written promise to pay.
B
They arise from the sale of a company's fixed assets.
C
They are classified as long-term investments on the balance sheet.
D
They represent amounts owed to a company by its customers for goods or services sold on credit.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of accounts receivable: Accounts receivable represent amounts owed to a company by its customers for goods or services sold on credit. They are considered current assets because they are expected to be collected within a short period, typically within one year.
Clarify the incorrect options: Accounts receivable are not always supported by a formal written promise to pay; this characteristic applies to notes receivable. They do not arise from the sale of fixed assets, as fixed assets are typically sold for cash or other considerations. Additionally, accounts receivable are not classified as long-term investments; they are classified as current assets on the balance sheet.
Identify the correct characteristic: The correct characteristic of accounts receivable is that they represent amounts owed to a company by its customers for goods or services sold on credit.
Relate accounts receivable to the accounting cycle: Accounts receivable are recorded when a company makes a credit sale. They are tracked in the subsidiary ledger and reconciled with the general ledger to ensure accuracy.
Understand the importance of accounts receivable: Managing accounts receivable effectively is crucial for maintaining cash flow and ensuring the financial health of a company. Companies often use aging schedules to monitor overdue accounts and assess the likelihood of collection.