accrual of liability

This Subtopic applies the general loss contingency model of Topic 450 to not-for-profit entities. It identifies two NFP-specific triggers — noncompliance with donor-imposed restrictions on contributed assets and problems with (or absence of a determination letter for) tax-exempt status — that may require accrual of a loss contingency under Subtopic 450-20 and disclosure under Section 450-20-50.

This Subtopic addresses compensated absences and other compensation-related costs for entities with regulated operations. Even though a regulator may allow such compensation in rates only when paid, the entity must still accrue the liability under Topic 710 because regulator rate actions cannot eliminate obligations the regulator did not impose. Because the cost will be recoverable in future rates as paid, the entity simultaneously records a regulatory asset representing the probable future increased revenue.