Question

Retained earnings, December 31, 2019 $210,300

Decrease in total liabilities during 2019 45,800
Gain on the sale of buildings during 2019 16,100
Dividends declared and paid in 2019 4,500
Proceeds from sale of common stock in 2019 49,400
Net income for the year ended December 31, 2019 22,600

Required:
From the above data, calculate the retained earnings balance as of December 31, 2015.

Answer 1

See below

Step-by-step explanation:

Given the above information,

Retained earnings balance as of December 31, 2015

Ending retained earnings = Beginning retained earnings + Net income for year ended - Dividends declared and paid in 2019

$210,300 = Beginning retained earnings + $22,600 - $4,500

Beginning retained earnings = $192,200

Therefore, retained earnings balance as of 31 December 2015 is $192,200