Question

Suppose management estimated the market valuation of some obsolete inventory at $99,000; this inventory was recorded at $120,000, which resulted in recognizing a loss of $21,000. The auditors obtained the following information: The inventory in question could be sold for an amount between $78,000 and $92,000. The costs of advertising and shipping could range from $5,000 to $7,000.

Required:
a. Would you propose an audit adjustment to the management estimate?
b. Prepare the appropriate accounting entry.

Answer 1

a. An audit adjustment is needed since the best case scenario, where the net realizable value is highest would result in $92,000 - $5,000 = $87,000.

b. the value of inventory must decerase by $99,000 - $87,000 = $12,000, so COGS must increase by that amount:

Dr Cost of goods sold 12,000

Cr Merchandise inventory 12,000