Free Accounting Book Closing Checklist

Closing the accounting books is a crucial task for any business to ensure accuracy in financial reporting and compliance with regulations. This checklist provides a comprehensive guide to help ensure all necessary steps are completed efficiently. Simply tick the checkboxes next to each item as you complete them to track your progress.

Objectives:

• Ensure accurate financial reporting.

• Facilitate compliance with regulatory requirements.

• Streamline the book closing process for efficiency.

Review General Ledger Accounts

• Verify that all transactions are properly recorded in the general ledger.

• Confirm accuracy of account balances by reconciling with subsidiary ledgers.

• Investigate and rectify any discrepancies identified during the review.

• Ensure proper classification and allocation of expenses and revenues.

• Obtain appropriate approvals for any adjustments made.

Complete Bank Reconciliation

• Compare bank statements with the general ledger cash account balances.

• Investigate and resolve any variances between the two records.

• Confirm that all outstanding checks and deposits are accurately recorded.

• Reconcile any bank errors or discrepancies promptly.

• Document the reconciliation process and adjustments made.

Adjust Accruals and Deferrals

• Review and adjust accrued expenses and revenues to reflect current obligations and income.

• Verify deferrals, such as prepaid expenses and unearned revenues and adjust as necessary.

• Ensure compliance with accounting standards and principles in adjusting entries.

• Document the rationale behind each adjustment for future reference.

• Obtain approval from management for significant adjustments.

Perform Depreciation and Amortization Calculations

• Calculate depreciation expense for fixed assets using appropriate methods.

• Review and update asset useful lives and salvage values as needed.

• Compute amortization expense for intangible assets in accordance with accounting policies.

• Document depreciation and amortization calculations for audit and reporting purposes.

• Ensure consistency and accuracy in applying depreciation and amortization methods.

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