Question

During 20x1, Orca Corp. decided to change from the FIFO method of inventory valuation to the weighted-average method. Inventory balances under each method were as follows:________.

FIFO Weighted-average

January 1, 20x1 $71,000 $77,000

December 31, 20x1 $79,000 $83,000

Orca's income tax rate is 30%.

In its 2005 financial statements, what amount should Orca report as the cumulative effect of this accounting change?

a) $2,800

b) $4,000

c) $4,200

d) $6,000

Answer 1

Answer:

Orca Corp.

The cumulative effect of this accounting change in estimate is:

That the cost of goods sold will be reduced by:

b) $4,000

Explanation:

a) Data and Calculations:

                                    FIFO       Weighted-average   Difference

January 1, 20x1         $71,000         $77,000                 $6,000

December 31, 20x1 $79,000        $83,000                 $4,000

Orca's income tax rate is 30%.

Note that the difference in the cost of the beginning inventory does not have any effect in the current period's financials.  It was an estimate that was done previously and Orca does not need to restate its financials for the previous year because of the change.  The accounting change only affects the current period.