Hounjet Tastad Harpham has decades of accounting experience working with clients across Saskatchewan. Their expert accounting advice is valued by clients ranging from individuals to businesses small and large. Hounjet Tastad Harpham is a Trusted Saskatoon Accounting firm and in this accounting tip, they share accounting tips to help Saskatchewan non-profit organizations manage finances effectively.
ACCOUNTING TIPS TO HELP SASKATCHEWAN NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS MANAGE FINANCES EFFECTIVELY
Managing the financial aspects of a non-profit organization can be challenging, but here are some accounting tips to help:
Understand Saskatchewan Non-Profit Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the specific regulations and reporting requirements for non-profit organizations in Saskatchewan. This includes understanding the rules set by the Saskatchewan Non-profit Corporations Act and any reporting obligations to government bodies such as the Saskatchewan Ministry of Finance or Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Implement Proper Fund Accounting: Non-profits often use fund accounting to track and report financial activity for different programs, projects, or restricted funds. Ensure you have a clear understanding of your organization's funds and implement a proper fund accounting system to accurately allocate and track expenses and revenues for each fund.
Maintain Transparent Financial Reporting: Provide clear and transparent financial reports to your board of directors, members, and stakeholders. Ensure your financial statements accurately reflect the financial position, activities, and cash flows of your organization. This includes preparing financial statements such as the statement of financial position (balance sheet), statement of activities (income statement), and statement of cash flows.
Track and Report on Restricted and Unrestricted Funds: Differentiate between restricted and unrestricted funds and accurately track and report on how these funds are utilized. Clearly document donor restrictions, grant terms, and any specific reporting requirements associated with restricted funds.
Stay Compliant with Tax Regulations: Understand the tax obligations and compliance requirements for non-profits in Saskatchewan. This includes ensuring compliance with federal and provincial tax laws, such as filing appropriate tax returns, maintaining accurate records, and understanding tax-exempt status and eligibility for tax benefits.
Implement Internal Controls: Establish internal controls to safeguard assets, prevent fraud, and ensure accurate financial reporting. This includes segregating duties, implementing approval processes, regularly reconciling accounts, and conducting periodic internal audits.
Budgeting and Financial Planning: Develop an annual budget that aligns with your organization's goals and priorities. Regularly review and update the budget to monitor performance and make informed financial decisions. Consider creating a reserve fund to address unexpected expenses or emergencies.
Seek Professional Assistance: Non-profit accounting can be complex, and it's advisable to seek professional assistance when needed. Consult with an accountant or financial advisor experienced in working with non-profit organizations to ensure compliance, accurate financial reporting, and effective financial management.
Track and Report on Grant Funding: If your non-profit receives grant funding, maintain accurate records of grants, including tracking expenses, meeting reporting requirements, and demonstrating the proper use of funds. Understand the specific reporting obligations associated with each grant and provide timely and accurate reports to the funding agencies.
Stay Updated on Changes: Keep abreast of any changes in accounting standards, tax regulations, or reporting requirements applicable to non-profit organizations in Saskatchewan. Regularly review updates from regulatory bodies and attend relevant workshops or seminars to stay informed about best practices in non-profit accounting.
Remember that these tips provide general guidance, and it's important to consult with an accountant or financial professional who specializes in non-profit accounting in Saskatchewan. They can provide personalized advice based on your organization's specific needs and help ensure compliance and effective financial management.
Accounting Services:
If you are looking for a Saskatoon chartered professional accountant for your personal taxes or business accounting needs, contact the team at Hounjet Tastad Harpham today.
