# Close Stage — Elaboration

## Criteria Guidance

### Good criteria — concrete and verifiable

- "All balance sheet accounts are reconciled with supporting schedules and no unexplained differences over $100"
- "Revenue recognition entries are documented with contract references and ASC 606 compliance notes"
- "Close checklist confirms all sub-ledgers are posted, intercompany eliminations are complete, and trial balance ties"

### Bad criteria — vague (no clear check)

- "Books are closed"
- "Reconciliation is done"
- "Period is finalized"

