Skip to contentSkip to search

Liability

A liability is a present obligation to transfer an economic resource arising from past events. Identify the event that created the obligation and whether the entity has a practical ability to avoid transferring resources. The amount and timing can be certain, as for an invoice, or uncertain, as for a provision. Both are different from a possible obligation. An obligation can be enforceable by law or arise in other circumstances addressed by the framework.

Worked example

Goods received on credit create a payable to the supplier.

Common mistake

A future intended purchase alone is not a present obligation; recognition and measurement require further assessment.

Where it appears in your exams

QualificationExamRelationshipPeriod
ACCA F1 Direct July 2027–August 2028
ACCA FA Direct September 2026–June 2027
ACCA FR Direct Official assessment-window verification pending
ACCA K1 Direct July 2027–August 2028
ACCA SBR Direct Official assessment-window verification pending
CIMA BA3 Direct Official assessment-window verification pending
FIA FFA Direct September 2026–June 2027

Related terms