An account that offsets the balance of the associated value on the balance sheet is called what?

• A. Contra asset
• B. Cost of goods sold (COGS)
• C. Depreciation
• D. Gross profit margin

Answer: (A)

Offsets on the balance sheet come from contra accounts, which reduce the value of a related asset. A contra asset is designed exactly for this role: it carries a credit balance that offsets the asset’s normal debit balance, so the asset is shown net of this offset on the balance sheet. For example, accumulated depreciation reduces property, plant, and equipment to net book value, and an allowance for doubtful accounts reduces accounts receivable to the amount expected to be collected. This presentation shows the true, net value of assets rather than their gross balances.

The other concepts don’t fit this role. Cost of goods sold is an expense on the income statement, not a balance-sheet offset. Depreciation describes the expense recognition process, while the offsetting balance on the balance sheet is specifically the accumulated depreciation (a contra asset). Gross profit margin is a profitability measure, not a balance-sheet offset.