Acquisition Date
Accounting glossary · Understand, connect, apply
The acquisition date is the date on which the acquirer obtains control of the acquired business. It anchors the recognition and measurement of the business combination.
Example
An agreement is signed on 1 April, but the buyer gains control after closing conditions are met on 15 May. On those facts, 15 May is the acquisition date.
Remember the difference
Control normally passes at closing, although the contract and circumstances can establish a different date.
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Examples are simplified for learning. Where a term depends on US law, IFRS, US GAAP or a historical rule, check the context explained above and the requirements relevant to your course.
Study references: OpenStax financial accounting and managerial accounting. For reporting requirements, consult the applicable IFRS Standards or FASB guidance. US tax terms should be checked against the relevant tax-year IRS instructions.
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