You are the accountant for ACC KarParts, a thriving company that makes auto parts. You oversee all accounting functions within the company. Quinn, your supervisor, has informed you that if the company’s profits grow by 30% this year, you will receive a $30,000 bonus, and she will receive a $60,000 bonus. No bonuses will be awarded if profit growth is less than 30%. Near the end of this fiscal year, the two of you have the following conversation:
- Quinn: We are getting close to 28% profit by the end of this year. If this happens, neither you nor I will get any bonus. What can be done to reach our target and get our bonus?
- You: There is nothing we can do to reach 30% profit this year. However, we can plan to reach that target next year.
- Quinn: If we claim some of next year’s revenue as part of the current year, you will get your bonus, I will get mine, and the investors will be happier. Therefore, everybody will be happy.
- You: Uh, Quinn, that would be an unethical action.
- Quinn: We are simply moving revenue from one period to another. We are not faking the revenue transactions.
As an accountant, what would you do in this situation?
Instructions
Write a 2–3 page report explaining to Quinn why you can’t move revenue from one period to another. In the report:
- Explain the importance of ethics in accounting.
- Apply ethical principles and professionalism to the case at ACC KarParts.
- Based on generally accepted accounting principles, recommend at least three acceptable legal alternatives to meet company goals.
- Use three sources to support your writing. Choose sources that are credible, relevant, and appropriate. Cite each source listed on your source page at least one time within your assignment. For help with research, writing, and citation, access the library, or review library guides.
This course requires the use of Strayer Writing Standards (SWS). The library is your home for SWS assistance, including citations and formatting. Please refer to the Library site for all support. Check with your professor for any additional instructions.
The specific course learning outcome associated with this assignment is:
- Evaluate a business’s accounting system for compliance with accounting principles, regulations, and ethical business practices.
View Rubric