What is the Difference Between Discount Allowed and Discount Received?

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The difference between discount allowed and discount received lies in the perspective of the parties involved in the transaction.

  • Discount Allowed: This is when a seller grants a payment discount to a buyer. It can be for various reasons, such as early payment incentives, volume purchase, or sales promotions. From the seller's perspective, discounts allowed are considered an expense.
  • Discount Received: This is when a buyer is granted a discount by the seller. It can be for the same reasons as discount allowed, such as early payment, volume purchase, or sales promotions. From the buyer's perspective, discounts received are considered income or a reduction in their cost.

In summary:

  • Discount allowed is granted by the seller to the buyer and is considered an expense for the seller.
  • Discount received is obtained by the buyer from the seller and is considered income or a reduction in cost for the buyer.

Comparative Table: Discount Allowed vs Discount Received

Here is a table comparing the difference between discount allowed and discount received:

Feature Discount Allowed Discount Received
Definition A reduction in the price of goods or services allowed by a seller to a buyer. A reduction in the price received by the buyer of goods and services from the seller.
Perspective Seller's perspective. Buyer's perspective.
Recording Recorded as a reduction of revenues, typically a debit to a contra revenue account. Recorded as a reduction in the expense (or asset).
Impact on Cash Flow Can improve cash flow for the seller by encouraging timely payment. Can reduce costs and improve the bottom line for the buyer.
Examples Discount for early payment, volume purchase, or sales promotion. Reduction in purchase price to negotiate better prices from suppliers.

In summary, discount allowed is a reduction in the price of goods or services granted by the seller to the buyer, while discount received is a reduction in the price paid by the buyer to the seller. The discount allowed is considered an expense for the seller, whereas the discount received is considered income for the buyer or a reduction in their costs.