29 May 2017
If a company receives payment from one of its creditors as a form of settlement and closure of accounts then what is the journal entry for the above transaction in the books of company?
29 May 2017
Thanks for the response. Mr. Kumar and Rashmi Gandhi ! What if even after this adjustment the creditors ledger still shows a credit balance in company's books? What could be the possible reasons of such differences?
02 August 2024
When a company receives payment from a creditor as a form of settlement and closure of accounts, the journal entry will typically involve recording the cash or bank receipt and adjusting the creditor's account.
### **1. Journal Entry for Payment Received from Creditor**
**Example:** Assume the company received ₹50,000 from a creditor as settlement and closure of accounts.
- **Bank/Cash Account**: This account is debited to reflect the increase in cash or bank balance due to the receipt from the creditor. - **Creditor Account**: This account is credited to reduce the liability as the creditor is now settled and the account is closed.
### **2. If the Creditors Ledger Still Shows a Credit Balance**
If, after this adjustment, the creditors' ledger still shows a credit balance, several reasons could be responsible:
1. **Overpayment:** The company may have paid more than the amount due to the creditor. This can result in a credit balance in the creditors' ledger.
2. **Unaccounted Transactions:** There might be transactions that have not been properly recorded in the ledger, leading to discrepancies. For instance, invoices or adjustments not yet posted.
3. **Errors in Recording:** There could be errors in recording either the payment amount or the original invoices. Mistakes in the amount recorded against the creditor account can lead to a remaining credit balance.
4. **Pending Adjustments:** There might be pending adjustments or credits from the creditor that have not been applied or adjusted against the account.
5. **Duplicate Entries:** Sometimes, duplicate payments or entries might be recorded, resulting in an excess credit balance.
6. **Accrued Interest or Discounts:** If any interest or discounts were applicable, and they have not been properly adjusted in the ledger, they could also lead to a credit balance.
### **Steps to Resolve the Discrepancy:**
1. **Reconcile Accounts:** Check the transactions and reconcile the creditors' account to ensure all entries, payments, and adjustments are accurately recorded.
2. **Verify Payment Details:** Ensure that the payment received and recorded matches the creditor's statements and that there are no errors in the amounts.
3. **Check for Errors:** Review the entries for any recording errors or duplications and correct them as needed.
4. **Follow Up:** Contact the creditor if necessary to confirm any outstanding balances or discrepancies.
By carefully examining these aspects, you can identify the cause of the remaining credit balance and make the necessary adjustments to ensure accurate financial records.