When must a liability for pension-related debt be recognized in governmental funds?

The recognition of a liability for pension-related debt in governmental funds occurs upon acceptance of the offer. This is because, in governmental accounting, a liability is established once the government has made a commitment that results in a future obligation to pay, which is effectively triggered when the offer is accepted.

The acceptance signifies that the governmental entity has entered into a contract or arrangement that obligates it to fulfill certain pension benefits to its employees or retirees. This aligns with the recognition criteria for liabilities, where a present obligation from past events requires settlement through outflows of resources.

Recognizing the liability at this point ensures that the financial statements reflect a complete and accurate picture of the government's obligations. This practice upholds the principles of accountability and transparency in financial reporting, particularly in terms of long-term financial commitments related to employee benefits.