Cash
Accounting glossary · Understand, connect, apply
Cash includes currency on hand and qualifying funds available on demand in bank accounts. Classification of checks, deposits and restrictions depends on the applicable rules.
Example
A business combines its petty cash and unrestricted demand deposit balances in the appropriate cash presentation.
Remember the difference
A postdated or uncollectible check is not automatically available cash. Cash equivalents and restricted cash need separate consideration.
Updated 3 November 2026. 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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