GASB Considers Updates to Compensated Absence Guidance

On March 3, 2021, GASB released proposed changes to the accounting for compensated absences. GASB first addressed this issue in 1992 with the release of Statement 16, Accounting for Compensated Absences. Since then, benefit practices have evolved resulting in inconsistent application of existing guidance and a lack of guidance for new leave types. This article provides details on the proposal, which would create a unified model for recognition and measurement for all types of compensated absences.