Dear All,
Accounts finalization means -
- The process of closing the books of accounts after scrutiny and verification of all the accounts appearing in the trial balance.
- Preparation of financials at the end of accounting period which should give true and fair view of the company's financial position and as per Schedule XI of the Co's Act and in accordance with the standards issued by ICAI.
It is generally assumed that financial statements are prepared on the basis of fundamental accounting assumptions –
- The enterprise has intention for continue operation in foreseeable future
- There is consistency in accounting policies from one period to another
- Financial statements are prepared on Accrual basis only.
The checklist may vary from industry to industry. It is depend upon the type of the company / industry but final aim is same for all types of industries that the financials should show true and fair view of the company’s financial position. Therefore it is a duty of an accountant to ensure and confirm all the figures appearing in the balance sheet.
Following are few examples to ensure and confirm the some figures appearing in the trial balance-
- Rent expenses account shows debit balance of Rs. 11000 at the end of the year where the rent is paid @ Rs. 1000 per month. An accountant should verify it whether there is a need of provision of Rs. 1000 for rent payable; If not, why ? Whether the rent is payable for only 11 months ? : Same for all periodical expenses because the accounts are being maintained on accrual basis.
- The closing balance of sundry debtors/creditors can be cross checked by obtaining balance confirmations from them. This will help to identify bad debts etc and correct debtors will be appeared in the balance sheet.
- Check the list of cheques issued but not presented for payment by ensuring the subsequent clearance in the bank in next month. If anything is pending, ensure whether the cheque is cancelled or not ? This will ensure that the RECO made is perfect. and bank balance is confirmed.
- Check the expenses pertains to current financial year only. Some expenses for current period may be paid in last year or some expenses for next years may be paid in current years; necessary entries passed in the books should be ensured.
- Check gross profit margin ratio for last two years and analyze the variance, find out the reasons.
- Check various turnover ratios and compare with pervious periods.
This exercise need to be done for all the accounts appearing in the trial balance and a checklist should be prepared. It is just as “audit our self”.
Closing Entries :
- Transfer of all the expenses and income accounts to P&L Accounts / P&L Adjustments accounts to ascertain the profit or loss for the period.
- Entries for closing of assets & liabilities accounts.