Accounting Basics

What Is Float?

The time gap between when a payment is sent and when the funds are available to the recipient.

Detailed Explanation

Float can work for or against a business depending on whether you are paying or collecting. Managing float is key to short-term cash planning.

Example

A check mailed on Monday may have three days of float before the deposit clears.

Why It Matters

Understanding float prevents overdrafts and helps optimize payment timing.

Related Resources

Related Accounting Basics Terms

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