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VernMitchell
Level 2

How to write off a an uncollectable loan

I originated a loan to a client and it will never be paid back. How do I remove it from my balance sheet? There are lots of articles on how to write off bad debt when it comes to invoices but I can't find anything on loans. 

Solved
Best answer December 31, 2022

Best Answers
Rainflurry
Level 13

How to write off a an uncollectable loan

@VernMitchell 

 

A bad debt expense applies to any business bad debt that has become totally worthless, whether it is a note receivable from a loan or accounts receivable from a sale.  You account for it the same way.  To remove the loan from your balance sheet, create a journal entry: debit bad debt expense and credit the note receivable for the uncollectible amount.  You should now show the expense on your P&L and the note receivable removed from your balance sheet.

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7 Comments 7
Rainflurry
Level 13

How to write off a an uncollectable loan

@VernMitchell 

 

A bad debt expense applies to any business bad debt that has become totally worthless, whether it is a note receivable from a loan or accounts receivable from a sale.  You account for it the same way.  To remove the loan from your balance sheet, create a journal entry: debit bad debt expense and credit the note receivable for the uncollectible amount.  You should now show the expense on your P&L and the note receivable removed from your balance sheet.

AileneA
QuickBooks Team

How to write off a an uncollectable loan

Hello, VernMitchell. 

 

I agree with Rainflurry. You'll have to create a Journal entry to remove the loan from your balance sheet. I'll show you how to create a J.E. in QuickBooks.  

 

Here's how:
 

  1. Click the Company menu and choose Make General Journal Entries.
  2. Fill out the fields to create your journal entry. Make sure your debits equal your credits when you’re done.
  3. Tap Save & Close.

However, I still recommend reaching out to your accountant to guide you in creating JE. To make sure your books are still intact and accurate. 

 

For more information, on how to record journal entries click this article: Create a journal entry in QuickBooks Desktop

 

Let me know if you need further assistance with QuickBooks. We're always right here ready to help you anytime you need us. Have a great day!

BigRedConsulting
Community Champion

How to write off a an uncollectable loan

@AileneA  RE: I'll show you how to create a J.E. in QuickBooks. 

 

Piling on after @Rainflurry isn't helpful and doesn't add any value. Also, the OP didn't ask how to enter a Journal Entry.

VernMitchell
Level 2

How to write off a an uncollectable loan

That was helpful, thanks. 

VernMitchell
Level 2

How to write off a an uncollectable loan

Rainflurry, how do I get in touch with you about your accounting/bookkeeping services? 

Rainflurry
Level 13

How to write off a an uncollectable loan

@VernMitchell 

 

Thanks for the inquiry.  I recently made an exit from business ownership/accounting and do this forum on the side just for fun and to help out.       

AlcaeusF
Moderator

How to write off a an uncollectable loan

Hello Rainflurry,

 

We've reviewed the solution you’ve shared and it's correct and accurate. Thank you for sharing your inputs to help address the issue.

 

We love to see members supporting one another! Have a great day.

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