Accountants for the Public Interest, 1990. This introductory guide acquaints volunteer accounting and business professionals with the basic principles of nonprofit accounting and key management concerns of nonprofit organizations. The approach is easy to understand, and the work is organized for use as a quick reference. Background in the distinctive qualities of the nonprofit sector includes qualifications for tax exemption, the role of the accounting volunteer, and the role of the board. Accounting principles, financial statements, controls, and budgeting are clearly presented in the nonprofit context.
Appendices provide sample forms, guidelines, and a list of resource materials.
While geared to the volunteer accountant, this book will also be very useful for the startup to medium-sized organization. The focus of this guide is on the structure that must be in place in order to have a successful and, hopefully, a less expensive audit. While the concluding chapters include technical details on engaging and working with an auditor, most of the book is devoted to the on-going financial procedures of the organization. Excellent practical advice will be readily understood by all nonprofit managers and staff. While this book will be most useful to the staff of a small organization, the information here is of interest to organizations of all sizes.