What are accounts receivable defined as?

Accounts receivable are specifically defined as unwritten promises by customers to pay a business at a later date for goods or services that have been provided. This means when a customer purchases something on credit, they are essentially agreeing to pay the company at a future date, creating a receivable for the company. This form of credit allows businesses to encourage sales by offering products or services to consumers who may not pay immediately, thus enhancing cash flow and customer relationships.

The other options do not accurately represent accounts receivable. Funds owed to suppliers are considered accounts payable, which are obligations the business needs to pay. Cash sales made during the month refer to transactions where immediate payment is received and do not create any receivables. Liabilities that need to be settled indicate obligations or debts that a business owes, which is not what accounts receivable signifies.