Realization is an important principle in accounting. It is the basis of revenue recognition and it gives to accrual accounting. When we used the word realization, it is usually regarding revenue recognition. Realization of revenue means when revenue to be earned from the sale of goods or rendering oRead more
Realization is an important principle in accounting. It is the basis of revenue recognition and it gives to accrual accounting. When we used the word realization, it is usually regarding revenue recognition.
Realization of revenue means when revenue to be earned from the sale of goods or rendering of services or any other activity or source becomes absolute and certain. An item is to be shown as revenue in the books of accounts only after it is realized.
Realization in case of sale of goods
Realization occurs in the following situations:
i) When the goods are delivered to the customer for a certain price
ii) All significant risks and rewards of ownership have been transferred to the customer and the seller retains no effective control over the goods.
Let’s take an example. Mr Peter received an order of 500 units of goods from Mr Parker on 1st April. The goods were delivered to Mr Parker on 15Th April and payment for goods was received on 30Th April.
The realization of revenue from the sale of goods will be considered to have occurred on 15th April because the goods were delivered to the customer on that date. The entry of sale of goods will be entered on this day.
Realization is not considered to have occurred on 1st April i.e the date of order because the seller had effective control on goods on that date.
Realization in case of rendering of services
The realization of revenue from the rendering of services occurs as per the performance of service.
Now there arise two situations:
- Multiple acts involved in the performance of service: Here, the revenue is realized proportionately on completion of each act.
- A Single act involved in the performance of service: Here, revenue is realized only when the service is completely rendered or provided.
Realization of income from other sources:
- Interest Income: It is realized on a time proportion basis as per the amount outstanding and rates applicable.
- Dividends: It is realized when the shareholder’s right to receive is established and when it is declared.
Realization with regards to other sources of income is considered to have occurred only when there exist no significant uncertainty as to measurability or collectability.
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A cash flow statement presents the changes in the cash and cash equivalents of a business. It classifies the cash flow items into either operating, investing, or financing activities. Unlike a balance sheet that provides information about the company on a particular date, a cash flow statement proviRead more
A cash flow statement presents the changes in the cash and cash equivalents of a business. It classifies the cash flow items into either operating, investing, or financing activities. Unlike a balance sheet that provides information about the company on a particular date, a cash flow statement provides information about the flow of cash over a period of time.
OBJECTIVE
Information obtained through cash flow statements is aimed to assess the ability of a business to generate cash and at the same time, maintain liquidity. Therefore, important economic decisions can be made by evaluating these cash flow statements.
Cash Flow statements are categorized into
Importance of Cash Flow
A cash flow statement gives us knowledge about the liquidity and solvency of the company. These are necessary for the survival and expansion of the company. It also helps in predicting future cash flows by using information from previous cash flows. It also helps in comparison between companies which shows the actual cash profits.

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