Based on the Information that follows, prepare the cost of goods sold section of a multiple-step income statement. Merchandise Inventory, January 1, 20-- $37,000
Estimated Returns Inventory, January 1, 20-- 1,000
Purchases 102,000
Purchases Returns and Allowances 4,200
Purchases Discounts 2,040
Freight-In 800
Merchandise Inventory, December 31, 20-- 28,500
Estimated Returns Inventory, December 31, 20-- 3,500

Cost of goods sold = $105,060

Explanation:

a) Data and Calculations:

Cost of goods sold section of the multi-step income statement:

Merchandise Inventory, January 1, 20--       $37,000

Purchases                                                       102,000

Purchases Returns and Allowances               (4,200)

Purchases Discounts                                       (2,040)

Freight-In                                                              800

Merchandise Inventory, December 31, 20--(28,500)

Cost of goods sold                                     $105,060

b) The cost of goods sold comprises the beginning inventory, purchases and freight-in costs incurred during the period, less purchases returns and discounts, and the ending inventory.  It represents the cost incurred directly for the goods sold.  This means that indirect costs are not included in the cost of goods sold.  Such costs are usually deducted as period costs before arriving at the net income.