Restricted Explained: Meaning, Types, Process, and Risks
In accounting and reporting, **Restricted** means an amount, asset, fund, or right exists, but it is **not freely available for general use**. A restriction can come from a lender, regulator, donor, contract, court order, grant agreement, trust arrangement, or law. Understanding what is restricted is essential because reported balances can look strong on paper while actual usable liquidity is much lower.