Mihsaba›Finance›Days Sales Outstanding Calculator (DSO)

Days Sales Outstanding Calculator (DSO)

Calculate average collection days from average accounts receivable, net credit sales and period days.

Starting values are an editable worked example.

How to use

Calculate average collection days from average accounts receivable, net credit sales and period days.

  1. Enter Average accounts receivable.
  2. Enter Net credit sales.
  3. Enter Days in period.
  4. Calculate, then review the metric definition and comparison limits.

How it is calculated

DSO = average accounts receivable ÷ net credit sales × period days

Example

Average receivables of 90,000 and credit sales of 720,000 over 365 days give DSO of about 45.6 days.

Important notes

Use credit sales rather than total sales when cash sales are material, and match average receivables to the same period.

Worked examples and interpreting results

Average receivables of 90,000 and credit sales of 720,000 over 365 days give DSO of about 45.6 days.

Worked examples and interpreting results
CaseCalculationResult
DSO90000 ÷ 720000 × 36545.625 days
Receivables share90000 ÷ 720000 × 10012.5 %

How to check the result

Use credit sales rather than total sales when cash sales are material, and match average receivables to the same period.

Frequently asked questions

Is lower DSO always better?

Faster collection usually helps liquidity, but credit terms are part of sales strategy and vary by customer and industry.

Should the inputs use the same period?

Yes. Use figures from the same reporting period and accounting definition so balances and flows remain comparable.

Is the result enough for a decision?

No. The metric summarizes a numerical relationship; compare it with company history, industry context, and accounting or operating policies.