What GAAP and accrual-based accounting?

GAAP, or Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, is a set of accounting standards and guidelines used in the U.S. to ensure consistency and transparency in financial reporting. Accrual-based accounting, a key principle under GAAP, recognizes revenues and expenses when they are earned or incurred, rather than when cash is exchanged. This approach provides a more accurate picture of a company's financial health by matching income with related expenses in the period they occur.