In computing the service cost component of pension expense, the FASB concluded that
a. the accumulated benefit obligation provides a more realistic measure of the pension obligation on a going concern basis.
b. a company should employ an actuarial funding method to report pension expense that best reflects the cost of benefits to employees.
c. the projected benefit obligation using future compensation levels provides a realistic measure of present pension obligation and expense.
d. All of these answers are correct.
Answer: the projected benefit obligation using future compensation levels provides a realistic measure of present pension obligation and expense
Differing measures of the pension obligation can be based on
a. all years of service—both vested and nonvested—using current salary levels.
b. only the vested benefits using current salary levels.
c. both vested and nonvested service using future salaries.
d. All of these answers are correct.
Answer: All of these answers are correct
The interest on the projected benefit obligation component of pension expense
a. reflects the incremental borrowing rate of the employer.
b. reflects the rates at which pension benefits could be effectively settled.
c. is the same as the expected return on plan assets.
d. may be stated implicitly or explicitly when reported.
Answer: reflects the rates at which pension benefits could be effectively settled
