Answer:
ending RE 30,000
Explanation:
Using the acounting equation we solve for the beginning RE
Assets = liab + equity
155,000 = 85,600 + 52,400 + Retained Earnings
155,000 - 85,600 - 52,400 = 17,000
beginning RE 17,000
net income
revenues 36,000 - 20,000 expenses = 16,000
dividends: 3,000
ending RE: 17,000 + 16,000 - 3,000 = 30,000