Quick Ratio Calculator

Acid Test Ratio - Liquidity Analysis

Calculate the quick ratio (acid test ratio) to measure a company's ability to meet short-term obligations with its most liquid assets.

Financial Data

$

Cash on hand and in bank accounts

$

Short-term investments easily convertible to cash

$

Money owed by customers

$

Short-term debts due within one year

Quick Ratio Formula

Quick Ratio = (Cash + Securities + Receivables) / Current Liabilities

Also known as the Acid Test Ratio, it measures immediate liquidity without relying on inventory sales.

Interpretation Guide

β‰₯ 2.0: Excellent liquidity

1.5 - 2.0: Good liquidity

1.0 - 1.5: Acceptable liquidity

0.5 - 1.0: Poor liquidity

< 0.5: Critical - immediate action needed

A ratio of 1.0 or higher indicates the company can pay off current liabilities without selling inventory.

Understanding Quick Ratio

The quick ratio (acid test ratio) measures a company's ability to meet short-term obligations using only its most liquid assets.

Key Points:

  • More conservative than current ratio (excludes inventory)
  • Focuses on assets quickly convertible to cash
  • Ideal ratio is typically 1.0 or higher
  • Industry standards may vary
  • Higher ratio indicates better liquidity position

Quick Ratio vs Current Ratio

Quick Ratio:

Excludes inventory and prepaid expenses. More stringent test of liquidity.

Current Ratio:

Includes all current assets. Broader measure of liquidity.

When to Use Quick Ratio:

  • Assessing immediate liquidity needs
  • Companies with slow-moving inventory
  • Conservative financial analysis
  • Credit risk assessment

Improving Quick Ratio

Increase Quick Assets:

  • Improve cash collection from customers
  • Reduce accounts receivable days
  • Sell non-essential assets
  • Increase short-term investments

Reduce Liabilities:

  • Pay off short-term debts
  • Negotiate longer payment terms
  • Refinance to long-term debt
  • Reduce operational expenses

Operational Changes:

  • Improve working capital management
  • Optimize inventory levels
  • Enhance credit policies
  • Increase profit margins