Question

Sound Audio manufactures and sells audio equipment for automobiles. Engineers notified management in December 2021 of a circuit flaw in an amplifier that poses a potential fire hazard. An intense investigation indicated that a product recall is virtually certain, estimated to cost the company $2 million. The fiscal year ends on December 31. Required: 1. Should this loss contingency be accrued

Answer 1

Answer:

Sound Audio

Yes.  This loss should be accrued.

Explanation:

Accruing the loss contingency gives the readers of the financial statements an early warning of the probable existence of a future loss.  A loss contingency arises from a probable future event, which gives rise to an adverse outcome from a lawsuit.  Since the cost of the loss can be reasonably estimated and the product recall is virtually certain, it is prudent for Sound Audio to provide for this loss in its December 2021 financial statements.