Which budget focuses primarily on the cash inflows and outflows?

The cash budget is specifically designed to track the cash inflows and outflows of an organization during a particular period. It serves as a crucial tool for financial management, enabling businesses to ensure they have sufficient cash on hand to meet operational needs and obligations. This budget outlines expected income from various sources, such as sales or asset disposals, alongside anticipated expenditures, including salaries, rent, and purchases.

By detailing these cash transactions, the cash budget aids in planning for cash surpluses or deficits and allows management to make informed decisions about investments, financing options, or cost reductions. This focus on cash flow distinguishes the cash budget from other types of budgets. For example, the operating budget concentrates on the income and expenses related to the business’s core operations, while the capital budget deals with long-term investments. The flexible budget adjusts for varying levels of activity but does not specifically focus on cash movements. Thus, the cash budget is uniquely suited for monitoring and managing cash flow effectively.