Glossary

Acid-test ratio

The acid-test (quick) ratio measures whether you could pay short-term debts without selling stock — a stricter liquidity check than the current ratio. Below 1 is a warning.

2 min read

Quick assets ÷ current liabilitiesExcludes stock
Stricter than current ratio>1 is healthy

Definition

The acid-test ratio (or quick ratio) divides quick assets — cash and receivables, excluding stock — by current liabilities. It tests whether you can meet short-term obligations without relying on selling inventory.

In plain terms

Because stock can be slow to turn into cash, the acid test strips it out. A ratio under 1 means you could not cover short-term debts from liquid assets alone.

Why it matters for your company

Lenders watch the quick ratio for businesses carrying lots of stock. Improving it — faster collections, leaner inventory — signals resilience. Check it with the quick ratio calculator.

Funding for UK limited companies

Credicorp lends to your company, not to you personally — short-term working capital with no personal guarantee. See what your business could access.