BASIS OF ACCOUNTING - 7440
The basis of accounting describes how financial activities are recognized and reported; specifically, when revenues, expenditures (or expenses), assets, and liabilities are recognized and reported in the financial reports.
Accrual Basis of Accounting
This basis of accounting recognizes transactions in the fiscal year they occur, regardless of when cash is received or disbursed. Revenue is recognized in the fiscal year earned, and expenses are recognized when incurred. This is also referred to as the full accrual basis of accounting.
Proprietary and fiduciary type funds use the accrual basis of accounting to recognize and report financial activities. For information on proprietary and fiduciary funds, see SAM Sections 7420 and 13400.
Modified Accrual Basis of Accounting
This basis of accounting recognizes revenues if the underlying transaction occurred as of the last day of the fiscal year and the amount is measurable and available to finance expenditures of the current period (i.e., the actual collection will occur either during the current period or soon enough after the end of the current period, to pay current period’s obligations). Expenditures are recognized when the obligations are created, except for amounts payable from future fiscal year appropriations.
Governmental type funds use the modified accrual basis of accounting to recognize and report financial activities. For information on governmental type funds, see SAM Section 7420.
Cash Basis of Accounting
This basis of accounting recognizes revenues and expenses when cash is received or disbursed.