MYOB Account Numbers

Within each of the major account types (header or detail) there are a number of account types that may be nominated. The account number in MYOB is a four-digit number that is added to the prefix that identifies the type of
account it is.

The number you give an account will determine it's order and grouping in the financial statements. So what are the types of account and their prefix in MYOB?

1. Asset:
In the simplest of terms, assets are what is owned. Assets are resources controlled by the business from which future economic benefits are expected. Examples of assets include cash, accounts receivable, furnishings, vehicles and equipment. Assets will probably be grouped as current or non-current (but we'll get to that in another lesson).

2. Liability:
In everyday terms, this basically means what is owed. Liabilities are the future economic sacrifices that the business is obliged to make. Examples of liabilities include accounts payable, credit card debts and bank loans. As with assets, liabilities will also be grouped as being current or non-current in nature.

3. Equity:
Equity (frequently called owner's equity or proprietorship) is the owner's claim on total assets of the business. A simple way to look at equity is 'what the business owes to the owner.' Common equity accounts include capital, retained earnings and drawings.

4. Income:
Income (also called revenue) arises from the ordinary activity of the business. This usually comes from sales or services provided in the ordinary course of business.

5. Cost of Sales:
Cost of sales (commonly called COGS or Cost of Goods Sold) are the expenses to the business directly related to the goods being sold. As service businesses do not have inventory, they have no need for COGS accounts. Typical cost of sales accounts include Purchases and Freight Inwards. Cost of Sales are taken from Net Sales on the Profit & Loss in order to arrive at the gross profit figure.

6. Expense:
Expenses are assets consumed or services used in the process of generating revenue. Typical expenses might include things like rent, wages paid, office supplies, bank fees, advertising expenses and electricity. Expenses are taken from gross profit to arrive at net profit.

8. Other Income:
Other income is where you would put income received which is unusual or outside the ordinary revenue-generating activies of the business. Examples
might include interest received or the proceeds from disposal of a long-term asset.

9. Other Expense:
Other expenses is often used for out-of-the-ordinary expenses or those not related to the income producing activity of the business.

For more MYOB information, visit our MYOB Tips and Tutorials Page.