

At the end of the accounting period, each ledger account will have a closing balance, considering the transactions in the current accounting period. Every ledger will usually have an opening balance unless it is the first time created one. Subsequently, all journal entries get their way to their respective ledger accounts. It will result in a discrepancy in the accounts. If there is a difference between the two, that means journal entries will not balance. And the total of all debits should always equal the sum of all credits. It consists of a debit and a credit for each transaction. Journal and Ledger in AccountingĪ journal entry is the basis of all accounts for any business entity. Notably, it is also recorded in accounts when made and not when it is realized, as per the accrual basis of accounting. Income is what the entity earns by selling its goods or services or by way of interest or dividends. This results in reduced net asset value every year. Thus depreciation is deducted from the historical value of the asset. Thus, this principle ensures a reasonable value/cost of the assets reported.įurther, depreciation is provided for all the assets in every accounting period to take care of their wear and tear. Intangible assets with impairments are also shown at their appropriate market values. They are valued at their fair market value. There is an exception to this rule for highly marketable securities.

This principle directs that all assets will be reported at the actual cost of acquisition and not at their current market value. Also, the associated costs are booked during the same period. More importantly, the sale of goods or services should be complete, and payment should be due for it. Types of Accounts and Three Golden RulesĪccording to this principle, revenue recognition happens at the time of execution of the transaction-irrespective of receipt of payment or cash.
