Understanding the Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) and Its Legal Implications

Q: Are ARBs legally binding?

No, ARBs are not legally binding, but they are often required for compliance by the SEC.

Q: Who issues the Accounting Research Bulletins?

The ARBs are issued by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).

Definition & Meaning

The Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) is a publication that provides guidance on accounting practices recommended by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). While these bulletins were not mandatory for AICPA members, they were often required by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for corporations under its jurisdiction. The ARBs were issued by the AICPA's Committee on Accounting Procedure, which was later replaced by the Accounting Principles Board in 1959.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

The ARB is relevant in the field of accounting and finance, particularly for professionals and corporations that must adhere to SEC regulations. It serves as a reference for accounting standards and practices, helping accountants and financial professionals ensure compliance with federal requirements.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, a corporation may refer to an ARB when preparing its financial statements to ensure it meets SEC regulations. This could involve applying specific accounting methods recommended in the bulletin to accurately report revenue.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Key Differences
Accounting Principles Board (APB)	A body that provided guidance on accounting standards before the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB).	The APB replaced the ARB and provided more comprehensive standards.
Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB)	The organization responsible for establishing accounting and financial reporting standards in the U.S.	The FASB superseded the APB and ARB, providing updated standards.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a financial professional or part of a corporation that must comply with SEC regulations, review relevant ARBs to ensure your accounting practices align with recommended standards. You can also explore US Legal Forms for templates and resources that can assist you in managing compliance effectively. If your situation is complex, consider consulting a legal or accounting professional for tailored advice.

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Quick facts

Typical users: Accountants, financial professionals, corporations
Jurisdiction: United States
Binding nature: Not legally binding but often required by the SEC

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of the Accounting Research Bulletin?

The ARB offers guidance on accounting practices to help professionals comply with SEC regulations.