Understanding Accounts Receivable Turnover: A Key Financial Metric

Definition & Meaning

Accounts receivable turnover is a financial metric that measures how effectively a company collects payments from its customers. It is calculated by dividing total annual credit sales by the average accounts receivable during a specific period. This ratio indicates how quickly a business converts its receivables into cash, reflecting the efficiency of its credit policies and customer payment behaviors.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, if a company has annual credit sales of $500,000 and an average accounts receivable of $100,000, the accounts receivable turnover would be 5. This means the company collects its receivables five times a year.

(Hypothetical example) A small business with annual credit sales of $200,000 and average accounts receivable of $50,000 would have a turnover ratio of 4, indicating a healthy collection process.

Comparison with related terms

Term Description Difference
Accounts Payable Turnover Measures how quickly a company pays off its suppliers. Focuses on outgoing payments rather than incoming receivables.
Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) Calculates the average number of days it takes to collect payment after a sale. DSO provides a time-based perspective, while turnover is a ratio.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are managing accounts receivable, regularly calculate your turnover ratio to assess your collection efficiency. If the ratio is low, consider reviewing your credit policies or follow-up procedures. Users can explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist in managing credit agreements or collection letters. If issues persist, consulting a financial advisor or legal professional may be beneficial.

Quick facts

  • Typical calculation period: Annually
  • Higher turnover indicates better cash flow management
  • Average accounts receivable can be calculated monthly or quarterly

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A good ratio varies by industry, but generally, a higher ratio indicates better performance. Ratios above 5 are often considered strong.