The glossary to understand and take action

Lux GAAP

Lux GAAP refers to the Luxembourg accounting rules applicable to the preparation of accounts within the national framework.

Notion comptable, fiscale ou juridique · Luxembourg Fiduciaries Editorial Team · Reviewed on

Understand the scope

Definition and points to distinguish

The framework, templates and disclosures required depend on the entity. Lux GAAP, PCN and eCDF refer respectively to an accounting framework, a nomenclature and a tool: they are not three equivalent standards.

In your file

What this changes in practice

The accounting framework determines how transactions are recognised, measured and presented. Under Lux GAAP, the rules and options applicable to the entity must be identified, along with the presentation and notes requirements. The PCN facilitates the classification of entries but does not, on its own, resolve all measurement issues. Consistency of methods over time and documentation of choices make the accounts easier to understand.

A scenario to help you understand

Educational example

A company uses software configured with a Luxembourg chart of accounts. It must nevertheless verify the treatment of a fixed asset or a provision: a correct account number does not guarantee correct measurement.

Fictitious situation, presented to illustrate the concept.

Prepare for what comes next

Points to check

  • Identifier le référentiel et le schéma requis
  • Documenter les méthodes significatives
  • Vérifier la cohérence entre écritures, bilan et annexe

The practical question

Find out more

Peut-on utiliser un seul traitement comptable pour tous les dossiers ?

Le référentiel applicable, la catégorie de l’entité et la nature de l’opération doivent être identifiés. Des pratiques de groupe ou un paramétrage logiciel ne suffisent pas à établir la conformité des comptes statutaires. Documentez les méthodes retenues et les changements : cette continuité permet de comprendre les comparaisons entre exercices et les informations présentées en annexe.

Connecting concepts

Terms to know as well

Continue with the concepts, contacts and procedures related to this topic.

Standard chart of accounts (PCN)The Standard Chart of Accounts (PCN) is the Luxembourg account nomenclature applicable to companies falling within its scope.Annual accountsAnnual accounts present the entity’s financial position and result at the end of a financial year, together with the documents required under its regime.Balance sheetThe balance sheet presents, at a given date, the company's assets and the resources or obligations financing them.AccountingAccounting organises the recording of transactions and the production of information on the company’s financial position and results.BookkeepingBookkeeping consists of recording transactions, filing their supporting documents and monitoring accounts according to a regular organisation.Accounting closeThe accounting close encompasses the work that finalises the accounts for a financial year and makes it possible to prepare the financial statements.

Put it into practice

Explore further with our guides

Practical guideAccounting obligations of an SARL in Luxembourg: organising compliance

Sources and verification

References consulted on 20 September 2026. Official procedures specify the applicable conditions and exceptions.

This guide explains a general process. The applicable rules depend on your situation; it does not constitute personalised advice. Report a correction.

A definition gives you a reference point. To examine your situation, clarify your question with a professional.