unconditional promise to give

This Subtopic addresses how a not-for-profit entity accounts for its own liabilities, principally unconditional promises to give (grants/pledges the NFP makes to others). It fixes the discount rate used in a present-value measurement at initial recognition (no revision unless the fair value option under 825-10 is elected), requires discount amortization to be reported in the same functional expense classification as the original promise, and requires a maturity schedule disclosure. It also cross-references guidance for donated assets transferred to intermediaries/agents and for refundable membership interests of social and country clubs.

ASC 720-25 governs how a resource provider (any entity) accounts for contributions it makes, including unconditional promises to give. Contributions made are recognized as expenses in the period made, with a corresponding decrease in assets or increase in liabilities, and are measured at the fair value of the assets given (or of the donee liabilities cancelled). Conditional promises are not recognized until the barrier is overcome, using the same conditionality analysis as the contributions received guidance in 958-605.