Which of the following statements about contingent liabilities is correct?

• A. A potential obligation depending on uncertain events; disclose if probable and estimable; if possible, provide disclosure; if not estimable, provide a note.
• B. A liability that is certain to occur and must be recorded regardless of estimation.
• C. Only disclose liabilities that are currently probable and estimable.
• D. Contingent liabilities should never be disclosed in notes.

Answer: (A)

Contingent liabilities are potential obligations that depend on uncertain future events. Because the outcome isn’t certain, they aren’t always recorded as liabilities. The proper treatment focuses on disclosure based on probability and measurability: if a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated, provide disclosure; if the amount isn’t estimable, note the contingent liability to inform users; if the event is only possible or remote, disclosure may still be appropriate in notes but not recognition. The statement captures this approach by describing a contingent liability as a potential obligation, and outlining when to disclose or note the amount based on probability and estimability. The other options misstate the treatment—for example, treating contingent liabilities as certain and always recorded, or claiming no disclosure is ever needed.