Skip to main content
March 12, 2019
Solved

How do I record dividends paid to shareholders as shareholder loans? Thanks

  • March 12, 2019
  • 2 replies
  • 0 views
Original commenter did not share additional details
Best answer by

Although not required - I suggest you create an equity type account for dividends issued.

To pay the dividend post journal entry: DR Dividends paid - CR shareholder loan.

At the beginning of the next fiscal year close the dividend account by journal entry: DR Retained Earnings - CR Dividends Paid.

Remember to do the Directors & Shareholders resolutions to authorize a dividend, and issue T5 slips in Feb next year.

2 replies

March 12, 2019
Hi Mike, I don't have an accounting and am new to book keeping. I was hoping you might be able to help me understand this a little more. When creating the "Dividends" account type, I can find the "Equity" Account Type but I'm not sure what "Detail Type" to select. It's required so this is preventing me from creating the new account. For the "Shareholder Loan" account, what Account and Detail Type should I select? Thanks so much!
Answer
March 12, 2019

Although not required - I suggest you create an equity type account for dividends issued.

To pay the dividend post journal entry: DR Dividends paid - CR shareholder loan.

At the beginning of the next fiscal year close the dividend account by journal entry: DR Retained Earnings - CR Dividends Paid.

Remember to do the Directors & Shareholders resolutions to authorize a dividend, and issue T5 slips in Feb next year.

March 12, 2019
Hi Mike, I don't have an accounting background and am new to book keeping. I was hoping you might be able to help me understand this a little more.

When creating the "Dividends" account type, I can find the "Equity" Account Type but I'm not sure what "Detail Type" to select. It's required so this is preventing me from creating the new account.

For the "Shareholder Loan" account, what Account and Detail Type should I select?

Thanks so much!