431 tagged with "Accounting"
Master accounting fundamentals and best practices for plain-text bookkeeping
Straight-Line Depreciation: The Formula, Real Examples, and How to Calculate It
Learn the straight-line depreciation formula, see step-by-step calculation examples, and understand when to use this method. Covers IRS recovery periods, journal entries, depreciation schedules, and comparisons with accelerated methods.
Trial Balance: What It Is, How to Prepare One, and Why It Matters
Learn what a trial balance is, how to prepare one step by step, the three types (unadjusted, adjusted, and post-closing), common errors and how to fix them, and why it matters for accurate financial reporting.
Unearned Revenue: What It Is, How to Record It, and Why It Matters
Learn what unearned revenue is, why it's classified as a liability, how to record it with journal entries, real-world examples from SaaS to gift cards, tax implications, and best practices for managing deferred revenue.
Bad Debt Expense: What It Is, How to Calculate It, and How to Record It
Learn what bad debt expense is, how to calculate it using the direct write-off and allowance methods, and how to record it properly. Includes journal entries, formulas, aging schedules, and tips for managing uncollectible accounts.
Break-Even Point: What It Is, How to Calculate It, and Why Every Business Owner Needs to Know
Learn what the break-even point is, how to calculate it with the break-even formula, and why every business owner needs this analysis. Includes step-by-step examples, common mistakes to avoid, and strategies to lower your break-even point.
Business Valuation: How to Determine What Your Company Is Worth
Learn how to determine what your business is worth using the four main valuation methods: asset-based, earnings multiple (SDE/EBITDA), market-based, and discounted cash flow. Includes formulas, industry multiples, and tips to increase your company's value.
Cost of Goods Sold (COGS): What It Is, How to Calculate It, and Why It Matters for Your Business
Learn what cost of goods sold (COGS) is, how to calculate it using the COGS formula, and why it matters for profitability and taxes. Includes inventory valuation methods, common mistakes, and tips to reduce COGS for small businesses.
Deferred Revenue: What It Is, How to Record It, and When to Recognize It
Learn what deferred revenue is, why it is recorded as a liability, and how to recognize it over time. Includes journal entry examples, ASC 606 guidance, common mistakes, and practical tips for small businesses managing advance payments.
Deferred Revenue: What It Is, How to Record It, and Why It Matters
Learn what deferred revenue is, why it's classified as a liability, and how to record it with proper journal entries. Covers ASC 606 revenue recognition rules, common mistakes, and practical tips for SaaS and subscription businesses.
Fiscal Year vs. Calendar Year: How to Choose the Right Tax Year for Your Business
Learn the difference between a fiscal year and a calendar year, who can choose a fiscal year, and how to pick the right tax year for your business. Covers IRS rules, natural business year concept, advantages, and how to change your fiscal year.
Independent Contractor vs. Employee: How to Classify Workers and Avoid Costly Mistakes
Learn the key differences between independent contractors and employees, including the IRS three-factor test, DOL economic reality test, ABC test, tax obligations, misclassification penalties, and best practices for classifying workers correctly.
Net 30 Payment Terms: What They Mean and How to Use Them
Learn what Net 30 payment terms mean, how they work, and when to use them. Covers 2/10 Net 30 early payment discounts, Net 60, Net 90 variations, late payment strategies, and practical tips for small businesses to protect cash flow.