When should revenue be recognized according to the revenue recognition principle?

The revenue recognition principle dictates that revenue should be recognized when it is earned, which occurs when the service is performed or goods are delivered to the customer. This aligns with the accrual basis of accounting, emphasizing that revenue should be recognized independent of when cash is actually received. The focus is on the completion of the earning process—this ensures that financial statements reflect the true economic activity of the business.

When a business delivers a product or completes a service, it has fulfilled its obligation to the customer, which justifies recognizing the revenue at that point. This method provides more accurate and timely information about the company’s performance during the accounting period, allowing stakeholders to make informed decisions based on actual business activities rather than cash flow alone.

In contrast, recognizing revenue only when cash is received, at the end of the accounting period, or when costs are incurred fails to accurately represent the business's activity and may mislead stakeholders regarding the company's financial health and performance. These other options do not align with the principle that equates revenue recognition with the completion of the delivery of goods or services.