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What are Contingent Liabilities in Balance Sheet?

Contingent liabilities are liabilities that depend on the outcome of an uncertain event. These obligations are likely to become liabilities in the future. Contingent liabilities must pass two thresholds before they can be reported in financial statements.

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Question added by Tanveer Hussain , Accountant , The County School System Fazilpur
Date Posted: 2022/12/25
Rughshana Windvogel
by Rughshana Windvogel , Accountant , African Tuna Traders CC

A contingent liability is recorded first as an expense in the Profit & Loss Account and then on the liabilities side in the Balance sheet

 

A contingent liability is a liability or a potential loss that may occur in the future depending on the outcome of a specific event. Potential lawsuits, product warranties, and pending investigation are some examples of contingent liability.

Jibrin Ibrahim
by Jibrin Ibrahim , System Analyst , Federal University Dutse

A contingent liability refers to a potential obligation that may arise in the future, depending on the occurrence or non-occurrence of certain events. It represents a situation where there is uncertainty regarding the existence, amount, or timing of the obligation, making it contingent on a specific future event or circumstance.

wisdom Jasper
by wisdom Jasper , Cashier And Customer Service Officer , First City monument bank

Contingent liabilities require a credit to the accrued liability account and a debit to an expense account

Muhammad Iqbal
by Muhammad Iqbal , Freelance Digital Marketer , Freelance

Contingent liabilities are not recorded as actual liabilities on the balance sheet because their occurrence is uncertain. However, they are disclosed in the financial statements to inform users of the potential risks and obligations that the entity may face in the future. The disclosure typically provides details about the nature of the contingent liability, the potential impact on the financial position, and any possible range of outcomes.

Mina Magdy Aziz  Botros
by Mina Magdy Aziz Botros , senior accountant , saveto egypt

Contingent liabilities must pass two thresholds before they can be reported in financial statements. First, it must be possible to estimate the value of the contingent liability. If the value can be estimated, the liability must have more than a 50% chance of being realized. Qualifying contingent liabilities are recorded as an expense on the income statement and a liability on the balance sheet.

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