A merchandiser uses a perpetual inventory system. The beginning Retained Earnings balance of the merchandiser was $105,000. During the year, Sales Revenue amounted to $77,000, Sales Returns and Allowances were $1,500, Sales Discounts were $2,300, Cost of Goods Sold was $39,000, and all other expenses totaled $15,000. The company declared and paid $19,000 as dividends. The last step in the closing process would include ________.

A. a debit to Income Summary for $57,800

B. a debit to the Retained Earnings account for $19,000

C. a debit to the Retained Earnings account for $15,200

D. a credit to Income Summary for $ 77,000