An accrued charge is an expense that has been incurred but not yet paid at the end of the accounting period.

It is recorded to ensure:

Expenses are shown in the correct period

Profit is calculated accurately

The accruals concept is followed

Examples:

Unpaid salary

Outstanding electricity bill

Interest payable but not yet paid

It is shown as a current liability in the balance sheet.

In simple terms, an accrued charge is a cost that the business owes but has not yet paid.