Bookkeeping

Read more about the article Overcoming the Limitations: Challenges of Using Off-the-Shelf Accounting Software for Nonprofits

Overcoming the Limitations: Challenges of Using Off-the-Shelf Accounting Software for Nonprofits

While off-the-shelf accounting software may seem like a cost-effective solution, it often falls short in meeting the specific requirements of nonprofit organizations, leading to various challenges. These generic systems typically lack the specialized features necessary for detailed fund tracking, grant management, and reporting that nonprofits require. As a result, organizations may face difficulties in maintaining financial transparency, reporting accurately to stakeholders, and ultimately, in achieving their mission effectively.

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Read more about the article Decoding the Essentials: Key Components of Nonprofit Financial Statements

Decoding the Essentials: Key Components of Nonprofit Financial Statements

In this article, we will delve into the key components of nonprofit financial statements, exploring their purpose, structure, and how to interpret the information they convey.

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Read more about the article It’s been three years since COVID-19 hit. How have nonprofit finances changed?

It’s been three years since COVID-19 hit. How have nonprofit finances changed?

It’s been three years since the COVID-19 pandemic “stopped the world.” In its wake, we have seen a significant, foundational impact on economies worldwide — and the nonprofit sector is no exception. From reduced funding and flat budgets to a surge in demand for services, nonprofits were challenged to adapt and rebuild on a massive scale. Even now, after the pandemic has seemingly faded into the past like a bizarre alternate reality, nonprofits are still feeling pressure from the impact of inflation on donors, in the ending of much emergency federal financial support, and in the scarcity of available (or retainable) talent. In this blog post, we'll explore a few pieces of how nonprofit finances have changed in the past three years since the pandemic, and what long-term effects you can consider as you navigate your own nonprofit’s finances. It’s been three years since the COVID-19 pandemic “stopped the world.” In its wake, we have seen a significant, foundational impact on economies worldwide — and the nonprofit sector is no exception. From reduced funding and flat budgets to a surge in demand for services, nonprofits were challenged to adapt and rebuild on a massive scale. Even now, after the pandemic has seemingly faded into the past like a bizarre alternate reality, nonprofits are still feeling pressure from the impact of inflation on donors, in the ending of much emergency federal financial support, and in the scarcity of available (or retainable) talent.

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Read more about the article The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and Its Impact on Nonprofits in 2024

The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and Its Impact on Nonprofits in 2024

The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), which came into effect on January 1, 2024, represents a significant shift in the regulatory landscape for U.S. businesses, including any non-exempt nonprofit organizations such as churches and charitable organizations. The implementation of the Corporate Transparency Act marks a pivotal moment in the fight against financial crimes, signaling a concerted effort to strengthen accountability and integrity within the business and nonprofit sectors.  This legislation aims to enhance financial transparency and combat illicit activities by requiring certain entities to report beneficial ownership information to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). By mandating the disclosure of beneficial ownership details, the CTA seeks to create a more transparent environment that deters illicit activities and promotes a culture of compliance across diverse entities operating within the United States. What Nonprofits Need to Know Exemptions for Nonprofits If your nonprofit has applied for 501(c) status but has not yet received it, you could potentially be subject to reporting requirements under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). Nonprofits with an active 501(c) status, political organizations under Section 527(e)(1), or charitable or split-interest trusts are exempt from the CTA's reporting requirements. This broad exemption covers a wide range of nonprofit organizations, including most charities, schools, religious organizations, private foundations, social welfare organizations, labor organizations, trade associations, chambers of commerce, and social clubs. It's important to note that the exemption applies without regard to whether the organization has filed an application for recognition of tax-exempt status pursuant to IRC 508(a) Implications for Noncompliant Nonprofits Nonprofits that do not meet the exemption criteria must comply with the CTA's reporting requirements.  Examples of Noncompliant Nonprofits Defective Drafting: Nonprofit organizations with defective drafting of their Articles of…

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Read more about the article What Can Nonprofits Learn From Patagonia’s $3 Billion Gift?

What Can Nonprofits Learn From Patagonia’s $3 Billion Gift?

Patagonia’s recent gift to a nonprofit organization committed to fighting climate change has many other nonprofit’s questioning how and why this particular nonprofit was the chosen one. Read on to discover a few important takeaways from Patagonia’s $3 billion gift as we approach a new year of business:

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Read more about the article Here Are The Biggest Myths About Outsourced Bookkeeping To Watch Out For

Here Are The Biggest Myths About Outsourced Bookkeeping To Watch Out For

Budgeting and forecasting require time. Finding someone within your organization with the ability to look at data and strategically plan for your ministry’s future profit and loss can be difficult. If you don’t have the time, resources, or understanding to tackle this job on your own, an outsourced bookkeeper can be an easy solution. Let’s debunk a few myths before you decide:

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Read more about the article Forecasting For Fall: A Roadmap For Your Church’s Financial Planning This Fall

Forecasting For Fall: A Roadmap For Your Church’s Financial Planning This Fall

In recent years, we’ve found that church roadmaps are getting tougher to build and forecasts are becoming harder to predict. All businesses have been impacted by the pandemic, for example, but most of those businesses are not directly reliant on outside or loyal donations to continue thriving. Read on to discover the 4 steps to building your church’s financial plan, which include eliminating virtual bookkeeping myths and empowering you to prioritize your mission.

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