Textbook Problem

Codification

Situation

You are conducting an accounting research project for your boss. Your boss has asked you to determine the appropriate U.S. GAAP that specifies how your company should recognize revenues from the sales of products in a retail store. Your boss is confused because most customers pay cash, but some customers purchase on credit terms, and pay in cash 30 days later. Your manager also wants you to determine the GAAP guidance for how revenue should be recognized in income. Your manager has a lot of knowledge and experience in accounting and has heard about, but has never used, the FASB Accounting Standards Codification system.

Directions

Use the FASB Accounting Standards Codification system to conduct the research your manager has assigned to you. Use the Codification to determine how to recognize revenue from retail sales, including the right to return. Be prepared to show your manager the specific FASB ASC references that provide the appropriate guidance. Also prepare a brief memo explaining to your manager the different levels of the Codification and how to use the Codification system.