Commercial books (statutory ledgers)

Commercial books are the records a Turkish merchant must keep to show the financial position of the business, its debts and receivables and its periodic results. The journal, the general ledger and the inventory book are the core books; companies also keep a share ledger and minute books.

Opening certifications are made by a notary or the trade registry office, and certain books also require closing certification. Taxpayers within the e-ledger regime keep their books electronically. Books and supporting documents must be retained for the statutory period.

Properly kept books can serve as evidence in favour of their owner in commercial disputes, whereas missing or irregular books weaken the merchant's evidentiary position and may lead to tax and criminal sanctions.