Joe Operates a Plumbing Business That Uses the Accrual Method

question 52

Essay

Joe operates a plumbing business that uses the accrual method and reports on a calendar year. This year, Joe signed a $50,000 binding contract with Brian. Under the contract, Brian will provide Joe with up to 2,000 hours of vehicle repairs at $25 per hour. This year, Brian provided 200 hours of repair services and billed Joe for $5,000. At year-end, Joe had not paid Brian for the services. What amount, if any, can Joe deduct for the repair services this year?

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Definitions:

Cost Principle

The accounting principle that states goods and services should be recorded at their cost at the time of acquisition.

Historical Cost Principle

An accounting principle that requires assets to be recorded and reported at their purchase price, without adjustments for inflation or market value changes.

Owner's Equity

The value that accrues to the owners of a company after settling all its debts, equivalent to the assets minus the liabilities.

Residual Equity

Residual Equity represents the amount of equity that remains for the common shareholders after all liabilities and preferential stock claims have been settled.