The conventional view it that government accounting is the counterpart to business accounting, and the absence of a profit motive in governments is where the dividing line lies. However, a careful study reveals that there are striking similarities in both areas. Drawing on the expertise of a distinguished group of contributors, this handbook demystifies governmental accounting. Introducing readers to the wider scope of governmental accounting, the content reflects the growing complexity of the subject. It covers state and local governments in the US as well as federal accounting and international public sector accounting standards.