What Is True Of The Accrual Basis Of Accounting?

The accrual basis of accounting recognizes revenue when it is earned and expenses when they are incurred, regardless of when cash is exchanged. This method provides a more accurate picture of a company's financial position and performance by matching income and expenses to the period in which they occur. It is in contrast to the cash basis of accounting, which only records transactions when cash changes hands. Accrual accounting is required by Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) for publicly traded companies.