Direct materials are first recorded on the balance sheet and later transferred to which of the following?

Direct materials are first recorded on the balance sheet as inventory. Once these materials are used in the production process, they are transferred to the income statement. This transfer occurs when the materials are incorporated into the finished goods that are sold, thereby recognizing the costs associated with these materials as an expense. This expense is categorized under cost of goods sold, which directly affects the profitability of a company for that accounting period.

The income statement is essential for determining how efficiently a company is operating and how its revenues compare to its expenses, including the costs of direct materials used in production. Recognizing these costs allows managers and stakeholders to assess the overall performance of the company and make informed decisions based on the profitability reflected in the income statement.