Contingent liability

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Contingent liabilities are liabilities that may be incurred by an entity depending on the outcome of an uncertain future event such as a court case. These liabilities are not recorded in a company's accounts and shown in the balance sheet when both probable and reasonably estimable as 'contingency' or 'worst case' financial outcome. A footnote to the balance sheet may describe the nature and extent of the contingent liabilities. The likelihood of loss is described as probable, reasonably possible, or remote. The ability to estimate a loss is described as known, reasonably estimable, or not reasonably estimable. It may or may not occur.

Examples

• Outstanding lawsuits
• Claims against the company not acknowledged as debts
• Legal liability
• Liquidated damages
• Tort
• Unliquidated damages
• Destruction by Flood
• product warranty
• Income Tax Disputed
• Sales Tax Disputed
• Financial guarantees given