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Glossary/Modified accrual basis

What is Modified accrual basis?

In short

The modified accrual basis is used by governmental funds. Revenues are recognized when measurable and available to pay current-period liabilities; expenditures are generally recognized when the related liability is incurred.

Key takeaways

  • It focuses on current financial resources, so capital assets and long-term debt aren't reported in governmental funds.
  • Buying a capital asset is an expenditure; debt proceeds are an other financing source.
  • Government-wide statements use the full accrual basis instead.

Where it's tested

FAR: Governmental Accounting — study notes, a five-minute revision sheet and practice questions.

Practise: 3 questions

Question 1 of 3 · 0 answered

Governmental funds use which measurement focus and basis of accounting?

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