Income Statement Basics

Understand your bottom line
Use income statements to track revenue and expenses so you can accurately determine net profits.
Income statements are specific to a defined period of time and reflect a business’ revenues (sales) and expenses, demonstrating how revenues can be transformed into net profit. If you’re an AgWest customer, or considering becoming one, we’d be glad to meet with you to review your income statements.
Why should I prepare income statements?
Understanding your net income positions you to make informed decisions about the direction of your business. With an income statement in hand, you’re also better prepared to answer questions such as:
- Do I have sufficient earnings to cover unexpected increases in input costs?
- Are my earnings sufficient to fund the next opportunity for growth?
- How much debt can the business afford given earnings and repayment capacity?
- Can I afford to purchase new equipment now?
What types of financial information are included in an income statement?
- Income (revenue and sales)
- Variable expenses
- Gross profit and margin
- Fixed expenses
- Net profit and margin

Cash to accrual adjustment template
Ready to give it a try? Download the cash to accrual adjustment template to get started.

Simple earnings statement
Download this easy-to-use template to help manage your cash flow. Use this tool to record transactions only when cash is received or paid.