How are accrued expenses defined?

Accrued expenses are defined as costs that have been incurred during a specific accounting period but have not yet been paid or recorded in the company's financial records. This means that the company has received the benefit of goods or services but has not yet settled the payment. By recognizing accrued expenses, a company adheres to the accrual basis of accounting, which aims to match expenses to the periods in which they are incurred, regardless of when the cash payment occurs. This practice helps ensure that financial statements accurately reflect the company's financial position and performance for that period, providing a more accurate picture to stakeholders.

The other options describe different financial concepts. Fully paid and recorded expenses pertain to transactions that have already been completely settled, while future obligations refer to liabilities that have not yet transpired. Expenses reported for cash basis accounting relate to a method where expenses are recognized only when cash is paid, contrasting with the recognition requirements of accrued expenses.