Startup Accounting
GAAP Basics for Startups
Collated by Aparna Devalla, CPA
Curated by Rubric Financial
1 / 4
What GAAP Means and Why Startups Need It
- GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) is the standard framework for financial reporting in the United States, established by the FASB.
- Investors, lenders, and acquirers expect GAAP-compliant financials before committing capital or closing deals.
- Adopting GAAP early prevents costly restatements later when you raise a Series A or pursue an audit.
- GAAP ensures consistency and comparability, making it easier to benchmark your startup against industry peers.
Related Resources
Startup Accounting
Month-End Close for Startups
Learn how to run an efficient month-end close process that keeps your books accurate and your financial reporting timely.
Startup AccountingStartup Bookkeeping Setup Guide
Everything you need to set up bookkeeping from day one — software, bank feeds, reconciliation, and monthly workflows.
Startup AccountingCommon Financial Mistakes First-Time Founders Make
Avoid the most common financial missteps that first-time founders make — from commingling funds and missing tax deadlines to skipping the 83(b) election.