Which of the following potentially limits the usefulness of the balance sheet when using the LIFO inventory costing method?

• A. Inventory may be reported at outdated costs that do not reflect current market values.
• B. LIFO always results in the highest reported inventory value during periods of rising prices.
• C. Inventory is always reported at the most current replacement cost.
• D. The balance sheet under LIFO always matches the physical flow of goods.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of LIFO (Last-In, First-Out) inventory costing method: LIFO assumes that the most recently purchased or produced items are sold first, leaving older inventory costs on the balance sheet.
2. Recognize the impact of LIFO on inventory valuation: During periods of rising prices, LIFO results in older inventory costs being reported on the balance sheet, which may not reflect current market values.
3. Evaluate the limitations of the balance sheet under LIFO: Since inventory is reported at outdated costs, it can potentially limit the usefulness of the balance sheet for stakeholders who rely on accurate and current financial information.
4. Analyze the incorrect statements: LIFO does not always result in the highest reported inventory value during periods of rising prices, nor does it report inventory at the most current replacement cost. Additionally, the balance sheet under LIFO does not necessarily match the physical flow of goods.
5. Conclude that the correct limitation is: 'Inventory may be reported at outdated costs that do not reflect current market values,' as this aligns with the nature of LIFO inventory costing during periods of price changes.