The accounting journal

When you are a business owner, there are a number of accounting periods that you cannot avoid. Even if these vary according to your legal status, some are common. In the context of accounting, the accounting journal is one of them. Here are three points to remember about the accounting journal.

Accounting journal: what is it?

Also known as a ledger, the accounting journal is one of the obligations of companies. It is an accounting document that makes it possible to take stock of the financial operations undertaken by the company during a given period.

The accounting journal is a financial management tool whose purpose is to record in chronological order each movement of funds initiated by the company. It must be filled in continuously and take into account the nature of the operations carried out. In other words, it must state whether it is a sale, a purchase or a cash transaction, for example.

Because of its function, the accounting journal must be both meticulous and detailed. Even if there are no pre-established or imposed forms, there is certain information that it must contain. The format also depends on the company's preferences. It can be handwritten or digital. However, for reasons of security and data protection, the digital format is the most appropriate. Thanks to accounting software, you can have it easily.

What is the importance of the accounting journal?

Given its role, the accounting journal is of great importance within a company. Firstly, it acts as aninformation tool on financial operations. It keeps track of each transaction, which allows for reliable monitoring.

Secondly, it serves as a basis for control. It may happen that certain operations require subsequent verification. The accounting journal makes this control easier. It is a guarantee and proof of legality and compliance for the company.

How is the accounting journal presented?

The general presentation of the accounting journal depends on the company. However, the information included in each accounting entry is established. These are

• the date of the transaction
• the numbers of the accounts debited and credited;
• the supporting documents for the transaction;
• and the total amount of the transaction.

This information allows a financial transaction to be traced back in time, funds to be traced and all documents to be verified as being in order.