most of the debate on pension accounting is related to alternative recognition metho 611508

Most of the debate on pension accounting is related to alternative recognition methods. Deferred recognition is the accounting model for pensions under pre-2011 IAS 19. The pre-2007 version of IAS 19 adopted an election of immediate recognition in income directly in equity, as opposed to net income. Pre-2011 IAS 19 uses a model that recognizes certain gains and losses in other comprehensive income but with immediate transfer to retained earnings. IAS 19 (2011) goes to immediate recognition in profit or loss but recognition of the measurement component in other comprehensive income with no subsequent recycling. Topic 715 (FASB Statement No. 158) continues the past practice of delaying recognition of actuarial gains and losses as a component of net periodic benefit cost but recognizes the entire funded status of a plan in other comprehensive income.