Which financial statement provides a written record of the financial status of a business for evaluation by third parties?

The financial statement that provides a comprehensive picture of a business's financial status for evaluation by third parties is referred to as financial statements. This term encompasses various reporting documents that collectively give insight into a company's financial health, including the balance sheet, income statement, and statement of cash flows. Together, these documents are critical for stakeholders—such as investors, creditors, and regulatory agencies—looking to assess the performance and stability of the business.

Each component serves a distinct purpose: the balance sheet offers a snapshot of assets, liabilities, and equity at a specific point in time; the income statement details revenues, expenses, and profits over a period; and the statement of cash flows summarizes cash movements within the company. By presenting these documents together, financial statements provide a holistic view necessary for informed decision-making and analysis by outside parties, fulfilling the requirement for a written record that accurately reflects financial status.