Difference Between Cash And Accrual Accounting

Cash Vs Accrual Accounting (Comparison)

Accrual accounting recognizes income and expenses as soon as a sale or purchase is agreed, while cash accounting waits until money has changed hands.

This difference is most relevant when things are bought or sold via invoice. A business doing cash accounting won’t show these invoice-based transactions on the books until payment is made. A business doing accrual accounting will show that money is due to come or go.

Cash Accounting

• Business accounts are updated only when money changes hands
• Gives a shorter-term view of finances
• A simpler method of accounting (preferred by some smaller businesses)

Accrual Accounting

• Business accounts are updated to reflect pending income and expenses
• Gives a longer-term view of finances
• May be required by some financiers or tax offices