Accounting policy, GAAP & adjustments · Core
Accounting estimate
Also called: estimate
ELI5
A monetary amount subject to measurement uncertainty.
Used in conversation
“Finance needs to reconcile accounting estimate before the numbers are released.”
Pitch context
You will see “Accounting estimate” in financial models, budgets, board packs and investor materials when the discussion reaches accounting policy, gaap & adjustments.
Why it matters: In accounting policy, gaap & adjustments, a loose definition can change rights, obligations, approval, disclosure or enforceability.
Caution
Meaning, enforceability and required process vary by jurisdiction and agreement; this definition is not legal advice.
Connected terms
- EstimateThe search label “estimate” can route to both entries.
Sources & evidence · 4
Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.
- IFRS Foundation — IFRS GlossaryDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- Financial Accounting Standards Board — FASB Accounting Standards CodificationDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission — Non-GAAP Financial Measures — Compliance and Disclosure InterpretationsDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Small Business Administration — Break-even pointSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16