Answer: Assuming no other changes to Retained earnings, the balance in the Retained earnings account at the end of the year would be: $123000.
Explanation: First we must calculate the accumulated earnings to date with the equity equation: Assets = Liabilities + Equity
We know that equity is made up of capital + retained earnings.
If the asset is 195,000, the Liability 15,000 and the capital 60000
195000 = 15000 + 60000
195000 = 75000
195000 - 75000 = Retained earnings
$ 120000 = Retained earnings.
The result of the year is Income - expenses
226000 - 175000 = $ 51000.
Then the company's total earnings are retained earnings + Profit for the year = 120000 + 51000 = 171000.
We subtract the distribution of dividends and obtain the balance of the retained earnings account: 171000 - 48000 = $123000.