With all the non-profit organizations populating the world today, it’s hard to keep track of everything. In this article, you’ll learn how to find a good bookkeeper and the best nonprofit bookkeeping services out there.
Table of Contents
What is bookkeeping?
Bookkeeping is the process of recording financial transactions and maintaining accurate records of a non-profit organization’s assets, liabilities, and net worth. The bookkeeper will also prepare tax filings as required by law. In order to keep track of a nonprofit’s finances, the bookkeeper will need to know about various accounting principles such as double-entry bookkeeping. Additionally, the bookkeeper will need to be familiar with various software programs that can help automate certain aspects of the bookkeeping process.
What are some common bookkeeping tasks?
Bookkeeping is the process of recording financial transactions and keeping track of a nonprofit’s assets and liabilities. Business bookkeeping services can help nonprofits manage their finances, stay compliant with tax laws, and improve their organizational efficiency.
There are a few common bookkeeping tasks that nonprofits must perform to maintain accurate records:
1. Recording donations and expenditures. Donors should be thanked for their support and recorded as gifts or expenses in the appropriate category. Expenses such as fundraising events, printing costs, and salaries should also be tracked.
2. Preparing financial statements. This information can help donors know how effective the nonprofit’s spending has been and identify any areas where money could be saved. It can also help the nonprofit receive funding from potential sponsors or donors.
3. Keeping accurate records of board members and officers. Board members should be listed by name, position, and contact information, as well as any contributions they have made to the organization. Officers should also be listed with their titles, contact information, and any expenses they may have incurred on behalf of the organization (for example, travel costs).
4. Maintaining documentation related to contracts or agreements signed with other organizations or individuals. This documentation may include letters of agreement or contract summaries.
Fractional CFO:
If you’re the treasurer or financial officer for a nonprofit organization, congratulations! You’re in charge of managing money and overseeing the organization’s fiscal health. The challenge is that this job doesn’t come with an instruction manual. In fact, there’s not a lot of information out there on how to do it well. That’s where fractional CFO services come in.
A fractional CFO is an accountant who specializes in nonprofit accounting. They work with nonprofits to help them manage their finances and stay compliant with IRS requirements. A fractional CFO will provide guidance and support on everything from budgeting to auditing. They’ll also help nonprofits create accurate financial statements and conduct performance reviews.
If you’re looking for someone to help you manage your nonprofit finances, a fractional CFO is a perfect solution. Talk to your accountant about whether they can recommend someone qualified to work with your organization.
Nonprofit Bookkeeping Services:
If you run a nonprofit organization, bookkeeping is an important part of keeping track of your finances. Bookkeeping services can help you track donations, expenses, and income; manage earnings and fund balance, and keep your records up to date. Here are some tips for finding the best nonprofit bookkeeping services:
1. Start with a list of needs. Before you look for a bookkeeper, first make a list of the tasks your organization needs help with. This will give you a better idea of what specific services are required.
2. Consider budget limitations. When selecting a bookkeeper, be sure to take into account your budget limitations as well as the caliber of services offered. Not all nonprofits have unlimited resources, so it’s important to find someone who offers affordable rates without sacrificing quality or service.
3. Ask around. Talk to other nonprofit organizations in your area about their experiences with bookkeepers and find out which ones offer quality services at reasonable prices. You may also be able to find referrals through professional associations or trade groups.
4. Get quotes from multiple providers. Once you have compiled a list of potential providers, ask each one to provide a quote for specific tasks your organization needs assistance with (for example, recording donations, managing expenses, and creating financial reports). Be sure to compare prices and services carefully before making a decision!
Conclusion
Nonprofit organizations face many challenges when it comes to bookkeeping. From keeping track of donations and income to ensuring that expenses are reported accurately, nonprofit bookkeepers have their hands full. That’s where a professional bookkeeping service can come in handy.
Not all nonprofits need the same level of care, though. If you’re only managing a few accounts and don’t need complex reports or support with fundraising efforts, DIY bookkeeping might be right for you. However, if your nonprofit is larger or faces more complex financial challenges, it’s worth considering hiring a professional bookkeeper to help keep everything on track. There are plenty of qualified services available online, so do your research before choosing one.
