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How to read a Balance Sheet

It’s common for small businesses to struggle when understanding their financial data.  Cash flow needs and a Profit and Loss statement are analysed more often a business owner and so, understood better.  

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A Balance Sheet, on the other hand, is often a mystery.  It is, still important to keep an eye on this data and the following will help.

When it comes to understanding a business, there are few financial statements more important than the balance sheet. The balance sheet offers critical insights into the health of a business that can be used by:

  • Potential investors to decide whether to invest in a company
  • Business owners to craft more effective organizational strategy
  • Employees to adjust their processes to better reach shared organizational goals

Whether you’re a business owner, employee, or investor, understanding how to read and understand the information in a balance sheet is an essential financial accounting skill to have.

Here’s everything you need to know about understanding a balance sheet, including what it is, the information it contains, why it’s so important, and the underlying mechanics of how it works.

What Is a Balance Sheet?

A balance sheet is a financial document designed to communicate exactly how much a company or organization is worth—its so-called “book value.” The balance sheet achieves this by listing out and tallying up all of a company’s assets, liabilities, and owners’ equity as of a particular date.”

The Purpose of the Balance Sheet

A balance sheet provides a summary of a business at a given point in time. It’s a snapshot of a company’s financial position, and is broken down into assets, liabilities, and equity. Balance sheets serve two very different purposes depending on the audience reviewing them.

When a balance sheet is reviewed internally by a business leader, key stakeholder, or employee, it’s designed to give insight into whether a company is succeeding or failing. Based on this information, a company’s management can shift their policies and approach: doubling down on successes, correcting failures, and pivoting toward new opportunities.

When a balance sheet is reviewed externally, it’s designed to give insights into what resources are available to a business and how they were financed. Based on this information, potential investors, or example, can decide whether it would be wise to invest or not. Similarly, it’s possible to leverage the information in a balance sheet to calculate important metrics, such as liquidity, profitability, and debt-to-equity ratio.

External auditors, on the other hand, might use a balance sheet to ensure a company is complying with any reporting laws it’s subject to.

It’s important to remember that a balance sheet communicates information as of a specific date. By its very nature, a balance sheet is always based upon past data. While investors and stakeholders may use a balance sheet to predict future performance, past performance is no guarantee of future results.

The Balance Sheet Equation

The information found in a balance sheet will most often be organized according to the following equation: Assets = Liabilities + Owners’ Equity.

While this equation is the most common formula for balance sheets, it isn’t the only way of organizing the information. Here are other options you may encounter:

Owners’ Equity = Assets – Liabilities

Liabilities = Assets – Owners’ Equity

A balance sheet should always balance.

If a balance sheet doesn’t balance, it’s likely the document was prepared incorrectly. Typically, errors are due to incomplete or missing data, incorrectly entered transactions, errors in currency exchange rates or inventory levels, miscalculations of equity, or miscalculated depreciation or amortization.

Here’s a closer look at what's typically included in each of those categories of value: assets, liabilities, and owners’ equity.

1. Assets

An asset is defined as anything that is owned by a company and holds inherent, quantifiable value. A business could, if necessary, convert an asset into cash through a process known as liquidation. Assets are typically tallied as positives (+) in a balance sheet and broken down into two further categories: current assets and noncurrent assets.

Current assets typically include anything a company expects it will convert into cash within a year, such as:

  • Cash and cash equivalents
  • Prepaid expenses
  • Inventory
  • Marketable securities
  • Accounts receivable

Noncurrent assets typically include long-term investments that aren’t expected to be converted into cash in the short term, such as:

  • Land
  • Patents
  • Trademarks
  • Brands
  • Goodwill
  • Intellectual property
  • Equipment used to produce goods or perform services

Because companies invest in assets to fulfill their mission, you must develop an intuitive understanding of what they are. Without this knowledge, it can be challenging to understand the balance sheet and other financial documents that speak to a company’s health.

2. Liabilities

A liability is the opposite of an asset. While an asset is something a company owns, a liability is something it owes. Liabilities are financial and legal obligations to pay an amount of money to a debtor, which is why they’re typically tallied as negatives (-) in a balance sheet.

Just as assets are categorized as current or noncurrent, liabilities are also categorized as current liabilities or noncurrent liabilities.

Current liabilities typically refer to any liability due to a debtor within one year, which may include:

  • Payroll expenses
  • Rent payments
  • Utility payments
  • Debt financing
  • Accounts payable
  • Other accrued expenses

Noncurrent liabilities typically refer to any long-term obligations or debts which will not be due within one year, which might include:

  • Leases
  • Loans
  • Bonds payable
  • Provisions for superannuation
  • Deferred tax liabilities

Liabilities may also include an obligation to provide goods or services in the future.

3. Owners’ Equity

Owners’ equity, also known as shareholders' equity, typically refers to anything that belongs to the owners of a business after any liabilities are accounted for.

If you were to add up all of the resources a business owns (the assets) and subtract all of the claims from third parties (the liabilities), the residual leftover is the owners’ equity.

Owners’ equity typically includes two key elements. The first is money, which is contributed to the business in the form of an investment in exchange for some degree of ownership (typically represented by shares). The second is earnings that the company generates over time and retains.

A Crucial Understanding

The information found in a company’s balance sheet is among some of the most important for a business leader, regulator, or potential investor to understand. Without this knowledge, it can be challenging to know whether a company is struggling or thriving, highlighting why learning how to read and understand a balance sheet is a crucial skill for anyone interested in business.

 

 

 

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Accounting & Bookkeeping

Modern business demands up to date accurate financial information.

We can take care of all your bookkeeping and accounting needs, including the preparation of your annual accounts and periodic management accounts for tax, business appraisal and planning purposes.

We can also assist with meeting your reporting requirements including Business Activity Statements, PAYG Withholding and Instalment Activity Statements.

We will discuss your requirements with you and provide you with tailored information and constructive advice on a regular basis.

If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .

Acquisitions & Mergers

Whether you are considering buying or selling a business, we are able to assist you in this transaction by providing experienced advice.

Each transaction is different and needs to be assessed on its individual merits. There are a number of accounting and taxation opportunities with these transactions and our experience can ensure you are maximising your benefits.

If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .

Budgeting

A good budget is a necessity in a good business plan. It is one of the best business tools we have, allowing us to set financial targets and measure our performance.

In addition to goal setting value, budgets will often improve your chances of acquiring funding. Financers often require budgets as a prerequisite for funding approval.

We have extensive experience with assisting clients in the budgeting process.

If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .

Business Start-Ups

Before commencing a new business, the following are some of the key items that need to be considered:

  • Decide on the most suitable structure for your business – sole trader, partnership, trust or company
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  • Register for a Tax File Number and an Australian Business Number with the ATO
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Each new business is different and needs to be considered in relation to your individual circumstances and our experience can ensure you are maximising your opportunities.

If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .

Charitable Institutions

Charitable institutions are set up to hold money or assets and carry out activities for the benefit of the community. In Australia, a variety of charitable institutions exist including:

  • Various forms of charitable trusts
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Each type of charitable institution brings with it different requirements and benefits. We know the practicalities of these institutions and are able to assist you by:

  • Co-ordinating the preparation of constituent documents
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Company Secretary

Company legislation requires businesses to perform many administration tasks which take up a lot of valuable company time.

We are able to assist you in the following areas:

  • General advice on company law
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Financial Structures

Having the right financial structure in place for your business or your family means looking at your individual circumstances and ensuring that your assets are being maximised whilst being adequately protected.

We have extensive experience in ensuring our clients have the best financial structure for their needs both now and in the future. We can provide advice on and assist with:

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GST

Every transaction has GST implications. We have experience with these issues and are able to offer expert advice on the implications of GST for your business. The GST related services we offer include:

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Management Consulting

We are practiced in acting as a sounding board for management, bringing to the relationship years of experience in business growth and analysis.

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If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .

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We can provide a comprehensive and confidential payroll service including:

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We can assist in a variety of areas in relation to residential and commercial property including:

  • Advice on funding
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Clients of Wybenga & Partners Pty Limited can engage our partner firm, Washington Brown, for a competitive price on their depreciation services: Tax Depreciation Quote Request – Wybenga & Partners Pty Limited Clients

Strategic Planning & Advice

Our Strategic Planning Service is designed to assist our clients to develop financially towards the achievement of their lifetime objectives. Our experience and proven results provide our clients with the security that their financial goals will be met.

Wybenga Financial Pty Ltd is an organisation providing wealth creation and management services to private clients.

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Self-managed superannuation is a flexible means of saving for retirement. It allows you to take control of your superannuation, adopt a customized investment strategy and control fund administration costs.

Superannution law is a delicate area and personalised planning is required for each individual. We have extensive experience in all areas relating to superannuation and can assist in establishing a superannuation fund that will effectively allow you to reach your financial retirement goals.

Services we offer include:

  • Establishment of Self Managed Superannuation Funds
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We offer a complete range of taxation services and advice based on proven knowledge and experience. Our proactive approach ensures we deliver a consistent service and build solid relationships.

We will work with you to help reduce your tax exposure and provide services including:

  • Advice on all areas of direct and indirect taxation
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If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .

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A trust provides a valuable way of protecting the assets you have accumulated for the benefit of yourself and others.  A trust can also be an effective structure for running your business.

We have extensive experience with trusts and are able to offer specialist advice on establishment and compliance, ensuring that all statutory requirements are met.

Wybenga & Partners are able to organise for the preparation and execution of documentation involved in Trust formation.

Our Trust administration service includes:

  • Minute keeping service
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Secure File Transfer is a facility that allows the safe and secure exchange of confidential files or documents between you and us.

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Accounting Videos

 

Chris Wybenga

B.Bus, CA

Chris is the Managing Director of the Firm who established the practice in August 1994 and has been responsible for its growth and development since that time.

Chris has over 40-years experience in the Chartered Accountancy profession, predominantly spent in small to medium sized firms, advising both small business and individuals in areas such as taxation and accounting as well as business restructuring and superannuation advice.

Chris is active in the development of young accountants both in mentoring cadets at the Firm and lecturing in taxation for the CA Program for the Institute of Chartered Accountants.

  • 1980 – Commenced employment and part time university studies
  • 1985 – Graduated Bachelor of Business from University of Technology, Sydney
  • 1986 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia
  • 1988 – Registered as a Registered Company Auditor
  • 1994 – Established Wybenga & Partners (formerly known as Farrar & Wybenga)

Dianne Bechara

B.Bus, CA

Dianne is responsible for the day-to-day operations and administration of the practice.

Dianne has over 30-years Chartered Accountancy experience and has significant expertise in providing advice and solutions to high-net-worth individuals and their associated entities. Dianne also has considerable knowledge in the areas of taxation, business services, superannuation, and compliance.

Dianne is active in promoting gender equality in the industry through various programs and mentoring opportunities. Dianne is also committed to the development of young accountants and donates considerable time to sharing her expertise.

  • 1992 – Graduated Bachelor of Business from University of Technology, Sydney
  • 1993 – Commenced employment in acounting profession
  • 1996 – Commenced career with Wybenga & Partners
  • 1997 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia
  • 2002 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga & Partners

Roger Potter

B.Bus, CA

Roger is responsible for the HR aspect of the Firm, cultivating the culture, and maintaining the highly social environment we pride ourselves on.

Roger has over 35-years in the Chartered Accountancy profession and significant expertise in providing advice and solutions to small businesses and high-net-worth individuals. He also has extensive experience in the areas of Self-Managed Superannuation Funds and retirement strategies.

Roger is active in the development of young accountants both in mentoring cadets at the firm and lecturing in taxation for the CA Program for the Institute of Chartered Accountants.

  • 1985 – Commenced employment and part time university studies
  • 1990 – Graduated Bachelor of Business from University of Technology, Sydney
  • 1992 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia
  • 1998 – Commenced career with Wybenga & Partners
  • 2002 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga & Partners

Tess Uncle

B.Sc, M.Com, CA

Tess has over 22-years experience in Chartered Firms and in this time has had a broad range of experience in superannuation, taxation, and business services. In particular, Tess has had significant experience in MYOB and assisting clients in day-to-day bookkeeping activities and periodic reporting.

Tess is responsible for the Firm’s training and development needs.

Tess is active in promoting gender equality in the industry through various programs and mentoring opportunities. Tess is also committed to the development of young accountants and donates considerable time to sharing her expertise.

  • 2001 – Commenced employment with Wybenga & Partners and part-time accountancy studies
  • 2004 – Graduated Masters of Commerce from the University of New South Wales
  • 2005 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia
  • 2007 – Promoted to Manager at Wybenga & Partners
  • 2012 – Appointed as Associate Director
  • 2016 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga & Partners

Schedule a Meeting with Tess


Adam Roberts

B.Bus, B.Sc, CA

Adam has over 18-years experience in Chartered Firms and in this time has had a broad range of experience in superannuation, taxation, and business services. In particular, Adam has had significant experience in MYOB and assisting clients with periodic management reporting.

Adam is responsible for the implementation of technology in the Firm and sourcing new areas of innovation and efficiency.

Adam is active in the development of young accountants and donates considerable time to sharing his expertise.

  • 2005 – Commenced employment with Wybenga & Partners and part-time Accountancy Studies
  • 2005 – Graduated Bachelor of Science from the University of Western Sydney
  • 2007 – Graduated Bachelor of Business from the University of Western Sydney
  • 2010 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia
  • 2010 – Promoted to Manager at Wybenga & Partners
  • 2012 – Appointed as Associate Director
  • 2016 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga & Partners

Schedule a Meeting with Adam


Accounting Cadetships

Build your career with expert guidance from our accounting cadetships program, based in Sydney NSW.

Wybenga & Partners offer accounting cadetships at our location in the CBD of Sydney NSW. You’ll receive expert guidance as you work in the industry.

  • Industry experts guiding you
  • Friendly and supportive culture
  • Modern work environment
  • Training and ongoing support
  • Convenient Sydney CBD location
  • Registered tax agents

Call (02) 9300 3000

or send your enquiry now

    Each year we offer several school leavers or undergraduates the opportunity of beginning their career with us via an Accounting Cadetship. If you are interested in pursuing a career in accounting please read the information below. Our accounting cadetships could be perfect for you!

    What is an Accounting Cadetship?

    An Accounting Cadetship enables you to commence your career whilst attaining the necessary university qualifications by studying part-time.

    How Does It Work?

    Generally, our cadets complete a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) or Bachelor of Business (BBus) degree at the University of New South Wales, the University of Technology Sydney, Macquarie University, or the University of Western Sydney.

    The firm provides 3 hours paid study leave per week to attend University. This can either be taken at the one time or broken between days depending on the individual’s requirements. In addition, the Firm provides paid study leave for both mid-semester and end-of-year exams.

    We take the work life balance very seriously at Wybenga & Partners and our cadets are encouraged to have a fulfilling life outside the office. A typical day will have you arriving at the office at around 8.30am with most days concluding at 5.30pm.

    What Are the Benefits of Accounting Cadetships with Wybenga and Partners?

    Our cadets benefit from the following:

    • Career path – on completion of their degree our cadets have significant practical experience which will assist them in advancing their careers.
    • Work helps your studies – by working full-time our cadets are able to apply their practical knowledge in the university subjects.
    • Camaraderie with other cadets – the Firm has a number of cadets at various stages of their career.
    • Mentoring – cadets are paired with a senior staff member who oversees their progress and training both at work and with their studies.
    • Communication and feedback – the Firm has an open door policy which enables all cadets to interact with all members of staff including Directors.
    • Culture – the Firm promotes a friendly social culture with a number of functions throughout the year.
    • Modern environment – including ‘socialising’ areas such as pool table and break out area.
    • Training – ongoing support and technical training. We also provide internal and external training on a monthly basis.
    • Remuneration – working full-time provides a market salary and independence with salaries being reviewed every 6-months.
    • Professional registered tax agents – Wybenga & Partners are registered tax agents with the Tax Practitioners Board. We use our years of experience and professionalism to provide the best advice and education to you, helping you build your career effectively.

    What Happens When I Complete My Degree?

    The completion of your degree is the first step of what we hope to be a long and successful career with us. The next step is the commencement of your CA Program with the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand whilst at the same time continuing your employment with us.

    A number of cadets have progressed to Seniors, Managers, and Directors within the firm.

    Who Should Apply?

    Current Year 12 students or first/second year University Students who:

    • want to commence their career in accountancy;
    • are due to commence or are currently completing a part-time business or commerce degree at university with an accounting major;
    • want to gain valuable hands-on experience while completing their qualifications;
    • are looking for a friendly working environment;
    • are team players who display initiative;
    • have a commitment to self-development;
    • possess excellent personal presentation and communication skills; and
    • are motivated and mature minded.

    How Do I Apply for an Accounting Cadetship?

    To apply for a Cadetship position at Wybenga & Partners send us your details. Please also include in your covering letter why you wish to do a cadetship, include relevant qualities you possess, main interests / achievements, and any previous employment.

    Interested candidates should initially forward a resume/covering letter of no more than 3-pages. Please provide full details of contact information (telephone or e-mail).

    What If I Have More Questions?

    For further information about our Cadetship program, please send your enquiry to .

    Skilled Accountants

    Wybenga & Partners offers a stimulating work environment giving you the opportunity to develop your future success.

    Wybenga & Partners recognises and promotes that there is more to life than work. We know that your needs change and we provide support to balance your work, academic and lifestyle pursuits.

    We welcome enquires from trained accountants regarding a career with Wybenga & Partners. Please email us your details to .