Glossary
Accounting Basics

Accrued Revenue

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
June 16, 2025

DEFINITION:

Accrued revenue is income earned but not yet invoiced or received in cash, recorded to match revenue with the period it was earned.
Accrued revenue refers to income that has been earned by an organization for goods delivered or services rendered, but has not yet been invoiced or received in cash. This type of revenue is recorded in the accounting period in which it is earned, regardless of when payment is actually received. Accrued revenue is an important concept in accrual accounting, helping organizations accurately reflect all earned income in their financial statements. Nonprofits often encounter accrued revenue when services are provided under grant agreements, but the funds have not yet been received by period end. Recognizing accrued revenue ensures that the organization's financial position is represented fairly and consistently from period to period.

Key Takeaways

  • Accrued revenue reflects earned but uncollected income.
  • It is a key part of accrual accounting.
  • Nonprofits use it to match revenue to the correct period.
  • Helps present a true financial position.

Why It Matters

It ensures financial statements accurately reflect income earned, even if payment hasn’t been received yet.

Real World Example

Imagine a nonprofit organization that provides tutoring services in June but doesn’t invoice the grantor until July. Even though payment will be received later, the organization has already earned the revenue in June. To follow accrual accounting principles, it records the value of the tutoring as accrued revenue in June’s financial statements. When the invoice is sent and payment is received in July, the accrued revenue account is reduced and cash increases. This process ensures the nonprofit’s financial records reflect the income in the correct period, providing an accurate view of its financial activity and compliance with accounting standards.

How Aplos Helps

In Aplos, accrued revenue can be recorded through journal entries, allowing nonprofits and churches to track income as it is earned rather than only when cash is received. This helps users generate more accurate financial statements and comply with accrual accounting standards within the Aplos platform.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is accrued revenue in nonprofit accounting?

Accrued revenue is income that has been earned for goods or services provided but has not yet been invoiced or received. It's recorded to match revenue to the correct period.

How do I record accrued revenue in Aplos?

You can record accrued revenue in Aplos by creating a journal entry that debits accounts receivable and credits revenue. This ensures accurate financial tracking.

Why is accruing revenue important?

Accruing revenue ensures your financial statements show all income earned in a period, even if payment hasn't been received, providing a true reflection of your organization's finances.