Revised Format for Financial Statements by ICAI: Applicability, Formats, and Compliance Guide 

Financial reporting in India is witnessing a progressive shift toward standardization, transparency, and global alignment. One of the key drivers of this change is the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), which has released a revised format for financial statements applicable to corporate and non-corporate entities from FY 2024–25. This blog explains everything you need to know, including:

  • What’s new in ICAI’s revised format
  • Detailed structure and downloadable formats
  • Applicability for different types of entities
  • Mandatory vs optional guidelines
  • Compliance and professional tips

May 26, 2025

📌 Why Did ICAI Revise the Format?

The primary reasons behind the revision are:

  • Alignment with global best practices (IFRS/Ind AS)
  • Greater financial transparency
  • Better stakeholder communication
  • Uniformity in disclosures, even for non-corporate entities
Whether you're a CA, finance manager, business owner, or accounting student, these changes affect how financial statements are now prepared and presented

You can also check out the Accounts Ka Badshah course and the Master Blaster of Ind AS to build a strong grip on these and to become an expert of Ind AS financial statement.


🧾 Entities Covered Under the New ICAI Format

Corporate Entities (Companies Act, 2013)

  • Private/Public Companies
  • Listed Entities
  • NBFCs
Governed by:
  • Schedule III – Division I: Companies using Accounting Standards (AS)
  • Schedule III – Division II: Companies using Ind AS
  • Schedule III – Division III: NBFCs using Ind AS
Non-Corporate Entities (Effective FY 2024–25)
  • Proprietorships
  • Partnership Firms
  • LLPs
  • Societies and Trusts
  • NGOs/NPOs
  • Individual Professional

📅 Timeline & Applicability

Timeline Milestone
June 2022 ICAI issued a Technical Guide for Non-Corporates
August 2023 Final Guidance Note issued for Non-Corporate Financial Statements
April 1, 2024 Effective date – applicable for FY 2024–25 statements


📂 Downloadable Financial Statement Formats (as per ICAI)

These formats are designed by ICAI and available in the Guidance Note.


🔍 Key Components of the Revised Format

🧾 1. Balance Sheet Format (Illustrative)

Particulars Note No. Current Year (₹) Previous Year (₹)
Equity and Liabilities
Shareholders’ Funds XXX XXX
Non-Current Liabilities XXX XXX
Current Liabilities XXX XXX
Assets
Non-Current Assets XXX XXX
Current Assets XXX XXX

📈 2. Statement of Profit and Loss Format

Particulars Note No. Current Year (₹) Previous Year (₹)
Revenue from Operations XXX XXX
Other Income XXX XXX
Total Revenue XXX XXX
Total Expenses XXX XXX
Profit Before Tax XXX XXX
Tax Expense XXX XXX
Profit After Tax XXX XXX
Earnings Per Share (if applicable) XXX XXX

💸 3. Cash Flow Statement (As per Ind AS 7 / AS-3)

  • Operating Activities
  • Investing Activities
  • Financing Activities  
Mandatory for corporates; optional for non-corporates unless statutorily required.

📊 4. Statement of Changes in Equity (SOCE)
Applicable mainly for:
  • Partnerships
  • LLPs
  • Companies with share capital
Tracks:
  • Opening balances
  • Net income/loss
  • Withdrawals, drawings, or dividends

📝 5. Notes to Accounts and Disclosures
  • Summary of Accounting Policies
  • Related Party Disclosures
  • Aging of Receivables/Payables
  • Contingent Liabilities
  • CSR Expenditure
  • Crypto/Virtual Assets (if any)
  • Property Title Deeds
  • Shareholding Patterns (for corporates)

  • ⚖️ Is It Mandatory to Follow ICAI's New Format?
    🏢 For Companies (Corporate Entities):

    Mandatory under Companies Act and MCA notifications. 

    👤 For Non-Corporate Entities: 

    Not mandatory. The ICAI clarified that the Guidance Note is recommendatory. However, it is highly advisable for:

    • Audited entities
    • Firms seeking bank loans or government grants
    • Mid-to-large professional practices
    • Entities with investor interest

    Compliance Requirements (Quick Checklist)


    Requirement Corporates Non-Corporates
    Balance Sheet & P&L ✅ Mandatory ✅ Recommended
    Cash Flow Statement ✅ Yes ❌ Optional
    SOCE ✅ Yes ✅ Recommended
    Notes to Accounts ✅ Yes ✅ Recommended
    Audit Trail in Software (from 2023) ✅ Yes ❌ Optional
    Filing with MCA (AOC-4, XBRL) ✅ Yes ❌ No


    🎯 Benefits of Following ICAI's Revised Format

  • ✔️ Improved financial transparency
  • ✔️ Better acceptability by banks, investors, and auditors
  • ✔️ Professional presentation of accounts
  • ✔️ Easier compliance with future regulations
  • ✔️ Preparedness for audits, funding, and tax scrutiny

  • 📋 Final Thoughts

    The Revised Format for Financial Statements by ICAI marks a significant upgrade in India’s financial reporting landscape. While mandatory for corporates, non-corporate entities are encouraged to adopt the new structure for better financial clarity, governance, and stakeholder trust. With rising expectations for transparency and professionalism, this guidance helps bridge the gap between informal and formal reporting—and prepares businesses for a more structured future.


    Reference Links:-

    Top 5 GST Software in India: Features, Benefits & Best Use Cases

    How to Gain Practical Experience in IND AS Financial Statements


    Vedika Beriwal
    Aspiring Company Secretory | M.COM | Masters in Bharatanatyam | Sharing insights on professional growth and success in the CA CS journey.