Lapping Scheme
 |
Definition of 'Lapping Scheme'An accounting method that involves altering the accounts receivable section of the balance sheet when cash that is intended for the payment of a receivable is stolen. The method involves taking the first receivable collected and using that to cover the theft, while the second receivable collected is accounted to the first, the third receivable to the second, and so on. |
 |
Investopedia explains 'Lapping Scheme'For example, assume that $100 that was to be used to pay for a receivable is stolen from ZXC Inc. The next receivable ($125) is paid to ZXC a few days later. In a lapping scheme, the first $100 of this second payment will be accounted to the first receivable account, while the remaining $25 will be put toward the second receivable.A lapping scheme may initially be a convenient way for a company to account for theft, but the firm must eventually account for the theft as a loss and deduct it from net income. |
Related Definitions
Articles Of Interest
-
Measuring Company Efficiency
Three useful indicators for measuring a retail company's efficiency are its inventory turnaround times, its receivables and its collection period. -
How To Analyze A Company's Financial Position
Find out how to calculate important ratios and compare them to market value. -
Dynamic Current Ratio: What It Is And How To Use It
Learn why this ratio may be a good alternative to the current, cash and quick ratios. -
Depreciation: Straight-Line Vs. Double-Declining Methods
Appreciate the different methods used to describe how book value is "used up". -
Financial Statement: Extraordinary Vs. Nonrecurring Items
When it comes to analyzing a company, successful analysts spend considerable time differentiating between accounting items that are likely to recur going forward from those that most likely will ... -
Get A Career In Showbiz Accounting
An accounting career doesn't have to be boring. If you love numbers, but want excitement as well, consider the field of showbiz accounting. -
What Management Accountants Do
If you like keeping track of a company's income and expenses but also want to hold a position with significant responsibility and authority, management accounting could be the job for you. -
The Basics Of A Financial Analysis Report
Running financial analysis on a company or industry is a key skill every investor must learn and understand how to undertake without which an ineffective financial report and investment recommendation ... -
GAAP And The IFRS Standards Convergence Efforts In 3 Substantial Areas
Understand the specific steps that have been taken in hopes of converging the GAAP and the IFRS accounting standards, despite the philosophically and culturally based methodological differences ... -
Beware False Signals From The P/E Ratio
The P/E ratio is a simple tool for evaluating a company, but no one ratio can tell the whole story.
Free Annual Reports
