Discuss briefly the three approaches that have been suggested for reporting changes in accounting principles.

Short Answer

Expert verified

The three approaches are currently, retrospectively, and prospectively.

Step by step solution

01

Explanation of currently

Any change will only be reported to the current year’s income as a special item.

02

Explanation of retrospectively

The cumulative effect of any accounting principles change will be reported as an adjustment to the retained earnings. The financial statements of the prior years are changed on the basis of the newly adopted principle.

03

Explanation of prospectively

No changes are made to retrospective financial statements. The changes shall be accounted for in the period of the change and subsequent periods.

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