Based on the attached info:

a. Using the aging method:

1. Determine Rogal's bad debt expense for 2004.

2. Assume that on January 1, 2005, $10,000 of specific receivables are identified as uncollectible and are written off. Does this write off affect 2005's income before taxes?

3. Assume that on January 1, 2005, $10,000 of specific receivables are identified as uncollectible and are written off, and that no collections on accounts or sales on account were made on that day. Compute the balance of net accounts receivable on January 1, 2005 (after the write-off) and compare it to the balance of net accounts receivable as of December 31, 2004 (immediately before the write-off).

b. Suppose that instead of aging, Rogal uses the percent-of-sales method to estimate bad debt expense. Suppose Rogal estimates that one-half of one percent of credit sales are uncollectible. Determine the December 31, 2004 balance in the allowance for doubtful accounts account.

c. Briefly explain why accountants don't just wait until specific accounts become uncollectible before recognizing any bad debt expense.