In governmental accounting, an '''encumbrance''' is the formal means of reserving funds which were [[appropriation|appropriated]] during a fiscal year; however, due to timing differences the funds won't be spent until the following fiscal year. | In governmental accounting, an '''encumbrance''' is the formal means of reserving funds which were [[appropriation|appropriated]] during a fiscal year; however, due to timing differences the funds won't be spent until the following fiscal year. |