Purpose of the Cash Flow Statement (2024)


The statement of cash flows provides a presentation of cash flow information that complements the accrual basis financial statements. The operating activities category in the statement of cash flows is not a cash basis operating statement. The classification of cash flows is functional, usually based on the nature of the underlying transaction.

The primary purpose of the statement is to provide relevant information about the agency's cash receipts and cash payments during a period.

When used with related disclosures and information in the other financial statements, the cash flows statement provides users of the financial report the following relevant information about the agency:

  • Its ability to generate future net cash flows
  • Its ability to meet its obligations as they come due
  • Its needs for external financing
  • Reasons for differences between operating income and associated cash receipts and payments
  • Effects on the agency's financial position of both its cash and its noncash investing, capital, and financing transactions during a period

Next: Fund Types Requiring a Cash Flow Statement

Purpose of the Cash Flow Statement (2024)

FAQs

Purpose of the Cash Flow Statement? ›

A cash flow statement tracks the inflow and outflow of cash, providing insights into a company's financial health and operational efficiency. The CFS measures how well a company manages its cash position, meaning how well the company generates cash to pay its debt obligations and fund its operating expenses.

What is the purpose of the statement of cash flows quizlet? ›

The main purpose of the statement of cash flows is to provide information about a company's cash receipts and cash payments in a period. The statement of cash flows provides information about a company's operating, financing, and investing activities.

Why is cash flow statement more important? ›

The Cash Flow Statement (CFS) provides vital information about an entity. It shows the movement of money in and out of a company. It helps investors and shareholders understand how much money a company is making and spending.

What is the purpose of a cash flow statement in budgeting? ›

A cash flow budget estimates your business's cash flow over a specific time period. You can use the information to see if you have enough cash coming in to maintain regular operations over the given time frame. It can also give insight into how to allocate your budget effectively.

What is the main purpose of the statement of cash flows to report on the cash receipts and cash disbursem*nts of an entity? ›

The main purpose of the statement of cash flows is to report on the cash receipts and cash disbursem*nts of an entity during an accounting period. Broadly defined, cash includes both cash and cash equivalents, such as short-term investments in Treasury bills, commercial paper, and money market funds.

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