The cost of merchandise sold during the year was $50,000. Merchandise inventories were $12,500 and $10,500 at the beginning and end of the year, respectively. Accounts payable were $6,000 and $5,000 at the beginning and end of the year, respectively. Using the direct method of reporting cash flows from operating activities, cash payments for merchandise total

A) $49,000
B) $47,000
C) $51,000
D) $53,000

Merchandise Inventories

Goods purchased and held for resale by a business, including products available for sale and items in the process of production for sale.

Direct Method

A way of preparing the cash flow statement where actual cash flow information from the company's operating activities is used, as opposed to the indirect method.

Accounts Payable

Short-term liabilities owed to suppliers or creditors for goods and services received but not yet paid for.