Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
Bad debt in accounting is considered an expense. There are two methods to account for bad debt: Direct write off method (Non-GAAP): a receivable that is not considered collectible is charged directly to the income statement. [5] Allowance method (GAAP): an estimate is made at the end of each fiscal year of the amount of bad debt.
This credit risk represents the charge-offs that will most likely be realized against an institution's operating income as of the financial statement end date. [1] This reserve reduces the book value of the institution's loans and leases to the amount that the institution reasonably expects to collect. [2]
The distinction is that while a write-off is generally completely removed from the balance sheet, a write-down leaves the asset with a lower value. [4] As an example, one of the consequences of the 2007 subprime crisis for financial institutions was a revaluation under mark-to-market rules: "Washington Mutual will write down by $150 million the ...
The second method is the direct write-off method. It is simpler than the allowance method in that it allows for one simple entry to reduce accounts receivable to its net realizable value. The entry would consist of debiting a bad debt expense account and crediting the respective accounts receivable in the sales ledger.
The purpose of making such a declaration is to help support a tax deduction for bad debts under Section 166 of the Internal Revenue Code. In that respect it is a form of write-off. Bad debts and even fraud are simply part of the cost of doing business. The charge-off, though, does not free the debtor of having to pay the debt.
Removing bad debts from the ledger (Bad Debt Write-Offs). Setting credit limits. Setting credit terms beyond those within credit analysts' authority. Setting credit rating criteria. Setting and ensuring compliance with a corporate credit policy. Pursuing legal remedies for non-payers. Obtaining security interests where necessary.
Get AOL Mail for FREE! Manage your email like never before with travel, photo & document views. Personalize your inbox with themes & tabs. You've Got Mail!
the "bad debt expense" associated with portion of the receivables that the seller expects will remain unpaid and uncollectable, the "factor's holdback receivable" amount to cover merchandise returns, and (e) any additional "loss" or "gain" the seller must attribute to the sale of the receivables.