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Accrual Basis vs Cash Basis

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Accrual Basis vs Cash Basis
Cash vs. Accrual Accounting
Learn which accounting method is better for your business.
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The cash method and the accrual method (sometimes called cash basis and accrual basis) are the two principal methods of keeping track of a business's income and expenses. In most cases, you can choose which method to use. Learn how they work and the advantages and disadvantages of each so you can choose the better one for your business.
In a nutshell, these methods differ only in the timing of when transactions, including sales and purchases, are credited or debited to your accounts. Here's how each works:
The cash method. The cash method is the more commonly used method of accounting in small business. Under the cash method, income is not counted until cash (or a check) is actually received, and expenses are not counted until they are actually paid.
Example
Your computer installation business finishes a job in November, and

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