What is the effect of failing to make adjusting entries?

Failing to make adjusting entries results in inaccurate financial statements, which can lead to a misrepresentation of the company's financial position. Adjusting entries are essential for aligning the accounting records with the actual economic events of a reporting period. They ensure that revenues and expenses are recorded in the correct period, adhering to the accrual basis of accounting.

Without these adjustments, financial statements may not reflect reality, leading stakeholders—such as management, investors, and creditors—to make decisions based on incorrect information. This misrepresentation can affect credit ratings, stock prices, and overall trust in the company’s fiscal health. Therefore, it is crucial to perform these adjustments to provide a reliable and accurate portrayal of the financial state of the organization.