Course Outline
Join PRO

What is float?

Author:
Harold Averkamp, CPA, MBA

Definition of Float

In accounting and bookkeeping, float is the time between the writing of a check and the time that the check clears the bank account on which it is drawn.

Examples of Float

Payer Corporation writes a check for $5,000 and mails it to a supplier on Wednesday. However, the check will not clear Payer Corporation’s checking account until Monday. Hence, Payer Corporation will have $5,000 of float between Wednesday and Monday.

Mary plays the float when she mails her rent check on Thursday even though she does not have a sufficient balance in her personal checking account. She is counting on her paycheck being electronically deposited on Monday morning prior to her rent check clearing her checking account.

Float is associated with the outstanding checks shown on the bank reconciliation.

Join PRO to Track Progress

Features

Free

PRO

Lifetime Access (One-Time Fee)
Explanations
Quizzes
Q&A
Dictionary
Bookkeeping Video Training
Financial Statements Video Training
Visual Tutorials
Quick Tests
Quick Tests with Coaching
Cheat Sheets
Flashcards
Crossword Puzzles
Word Scrambles with Coaching
Bookkeeping Study Guide
Managerial and Cost Accounting Study Guide
Certificates of Achievement
Bookkeeping Certificate of Excellence
Business Forms
Printable PDF Files
Progress Tracking
Motivational Badges and Points
Motivational Medal Rankings
Motivational Activity Streaks
Public Profile Page of Achievements

About the Author

Harold Averkamp

For the past 52 years, Harold Averkamp (CPA, MBA) has
worked as an accounting supervisor, manager, consultant, university instructor, and innovator in teaching accounting online. He is the sole author of all the materials on AccountingCoach.com.

Learn More About Harold

Read 3,033 Testimonials

PRO for Teams
  • Easily onboard new users and team admins
  • Monitor individual user progress and grades
  • Monitor team progress and compare users
  • View average grades and find problem areas
  • Monitor recent activity and user achievements
PRO for Teams
Take the Tour Join Pro Upgrade to Pro