Misconception · MIS:cash-interest-always-equals-interest-expense

Mistaken idea “Cash interest always equals interest expense”

Mistaken reasoning: This mistake ignores discount, premium, and issuance cost amortization when measuring issuer interest expense.

Updated Aug 21, 2026 Review due Nov 8, 2026

Why this is mistaken

Cash follows face and stated rate. Expense follows opening net carrying amount and effective rate.

Where to watch

When this mistake may appear

  • Coupon cash is easy to compute.
Check your work

Your work may contain this mistake if:

  • Debit interest expense for exactly the coupon paid in every period.