Accounts receivable are listed under the current assets section of the balance sheet and typically fluctuate in value from month to month as the company makes new sales and collects payments from customers.
Net accounts receivable is recorded as a debit on the balance sheet. In accounting, debits increase asset accounts, while credits decrease them. Since net accounts receivable is an asset, it is listed as a debit to indicate the expected amount to be collected from customers.
To report accounts receivable effectively on the balance sheet: Break down accounts receivable into categories, such as “trade accounts receivable” and “other receivables.” Clearly indicate the aging of accounts receivable to show how much is current, 30, 60, or 90+ days overdue.
Positioning: Accounts Receivable typically resides under 'Current Assets', as it's expected to be liquidated within a year. Include Net AR: Rather than the gross figure, the net AR (after accounting for doubtful debts) should be the figure on your balance sheet.
To report accounts receivable, gather information about outstanding amounts owed by customers, create an accounts receivable ledger, categorize the accounts by age, prepare a report that summarizes the outstanding amounts, analyze the report, and take action to collect payments and manage the balance.
To report accounts receivable effectively on the balance sheet: Break down accounts receivable into categories, such as “trade accounts receivable” and “other receivables.” Clearly indicate the aging of accounts receivable to show how much is current, 30, 60, or 90+ days overdue.
Assignment of accounts receivable is a method of debt financing whereby the lender takes over the borrowing company's receivables. This form of alternative financing is often seen as less desirable, as it can be quite costly to the borrower, with APRs as high as 100% annualized.
With factoring, the factor takes control of bill collection and assumes the credit risk for customer non-payment. In contrast, with the assignment of receivables, the business retains control of its customer relationships and the collection process, bearing all of the credit risk.