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What should accompany a proposed journal entry?
Present the reason, evidence and expected effect of a proposed adjustment before it is posted.
Applies to: General business accounting review; treatment depends on the facts and reporting framework.
An entry can balance while still being wrong for the business event or period. A reviewer needs the explanation behind the numbers, not just a debit and a credit. Separate the proposed accounting treatment from the evidence that supports it, and make unresolved assumptions visible.
IRS Publication 583 describes recordkeeping systems and supporting documents. The review packet below is an editorial workflow suggestion, not a prescribed IRS journal-entry approval process. IRS Publication 583.
A focused review checklist
- Describe the event in plain language, including why the existing records need adjustment.
- Identify the entity, currency, affected accounts and reporting period.
- Attach the calculation and source references so another person can reproduce the amount.
- State whether a reversal is proposed and who will review any later invoice or settlement.
- Keep preparation, approval and posting references together after the decision.
A hypothetical example
Suppose a hypothetical team proposes a $900 adjustment for an unbilled service. The packet should explain the covered service period, how $900 was estimated and which evidence remains outstanding. The accountant determines the treatment. When the invoice arrives, compare it with the approved estimate rather than adding a second entry without checking the first.
A rejected proposal is also useful history: retain the reason and close the open task. Avoid copying an old journal entry merely because the amount looks familiar. The recurring event, underlying evidence and accounting period may have changed.
For help organizing the records and open questions, see our bookkeeping and accounting service. Share sensitive records only through an agreed secure channel.
Questions about this review
Does a balanced entry mean it is correct?
No. Balance is a mechanical check, not evidence of appropriate accounts, period or treatment.
Who should choose the treatment?
The responsible accountant or authorized reviewer should decide using the facts and applicable framework.
What makes a review comment actionable?
Name the missing fact, needed evidence and person expected to respond.
Prepared by The Solution Bridge. Sources checked October 22, 2026. Educational guidance; verify current product instructions and applicable requirements.
Useful answers
Accounting FAQs
Why can profit and cash tell different stories?
Timing, unpaid invoices, bills, financing and non-expense cash movements can affect the comparison. Review the reporting period and accounting basis before drawing conclusions.
Which reports should I bring to a review?
Bring reports relevant to your question, their dates and accounting basis, plus balances that need explanation. Your adviser can confirm what additional evidence is needed.
Can you review an accounting workflow?
Describe the current process and desired outcome in the contact form. We will discuss scope, responsibility and next steps before work begins.
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