Fig. 22 _a._ is a form of a tabular ledger used by banks, known as the _Boston bank ledger_. It is specially arranged to exhibit daily balances, as it is necessary that the depositor's ledger be balanced daily. This form can be used in a mercantile business, but as balances are not required daily, the form shown in Fig. 22 _b._ is better adapted to the purpose. These tabular forms of ledgers are not commonly used except in banks.
=25. Balance Ledgers.= Three forms of balance ledgers are illustrated, each one of which is specially adapted to some particular class of business.
The special feature of Fig. 23 _a._ is two credit columns—one for cash and one for merchandise returns. This form is favored in certain lines of business where merchandise returns are frequent. A special column serves to separate returns of merchandise sent out on approval, which in some businesses is an important item.
Fig. 23 _a._ Ledger with Special Credit Columns ]
Fig. 23 _b._ is provided with two balance columns, for debit and credit balances. This form saves time in taking trial balances, as it is seen at a glance whether the balance is a debit or a credit.
The feature of Fig. 23 _c._ is several credit columns to one debit column. This form is largely used where sales are made subject to periodical payments. It is well adapted for installment accounts, rent accounts, insurance accounts, and similar classes. The number of credit columns can be extended indefinitely to meet existing conditions.
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Fig. 23 _c._ Balance Ledger for Installment Accounts ]
=26.= Since the almost universal adoption of special forms of sales books, purchase books, and check registers, the journal proper is only used for adjusting entries. The cash journal, which is a combination of cash book and journal, has taken the place of the two books. Some forms of this book have been illustrated earlier in this text, and a typical form is shown in Fig. 24 _a._ A study of this form will be found instructive as it suggests the many possibilities of segregating distinct classes of receipts and expenditures. Note the segregation of charges to manufacturing, selling, and administrative branches of the business. Under each branch the different kinds of expense might be shown with all their subdivisions by providing additional columns.