Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

Showing 177–192 of 236 results

  • Newsbits

    Summer 2012
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 481

    Abstract: In this issue, “Newsbits” takes a look at “Exempt Organizations Select Check,” an IRS searchable database that lets users check certain information about not-for-profits’ federal tax status and filings. It also discusses a New York charity’s interactive virtual food drive fundraising tool and notes a new political focus for Independent Sector, a coalition of nonprofits, foundations and corporate giving programs.

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  • Make your mark by benchmarking

    Summer 2012
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 660

    Abstract: The word “benchmark” may strike some as organizational lingo, but the practice of benchmarking often proves valuable for nonprofits. Nonprofits that incorporate financial benchmarks into their operations are better at anticipating negative financial trends and may even see revenues climb, expenses drop and efficiencies improve. This article explains the specific benefits of benchmarking and discusses metrics that many nonprofits can use in the process.

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  • A window to your world — Making sure your board echoes your community’s diversity

    Summer 2012
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 906

    Abstract: Board members are a nonprofit’s ambassadors to the constituencies it serves. But a lack of diversity — whether physical, societal or economic — can signal an underlying problem: a disconnect from the community. A nonprofit can improve its funding and program effectiveness when it reflects the population it serves, as well as the community (or communities) in which it operates. This article offers suggestions for improving diversity, while a sidebar shows there are ways to mix it up beyond just the board of directors.

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  • Disclosure of uncertain tax positions: Are you in compliance?

    Summer 2012
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 735

    Abstract: A not-for-profit, tax-exempt organization might think that the subject of “uncertain tax positions” (UTPs) doesn’t apply to it. But some of the basics of its operations, including its tax-exempt status, could create uncertain tax positions that trigger critical reporting obligations. This article shows how to engage in a two-step process to determine whether one’s organization has UTPs, particularly if it engages in unrelated business activities. It also discusses activities that can threaten a nonprofit’s tax-exempt status.

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  • Newsbits

    Spring 2012
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 479

    Abstract: This issue’s “Newsbits” describes how such nonprofits as the Salvation Army have begun shifting to digital donations; a new 501(c)(4) called CForward that was recently formed to champion the economic role of nonprofits and to educate and support candidates for political office; and the Celebrity Foundation Directory, featuring detailed descriptions of more than 1,700 foundations started by VIPs in the fields of business, entertainment, politics and sports.

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  • Safety net essentials — Now more than ever, you need operating reserves

    Spring 2012
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 651

    Abstract: One study of charities found that 57% of the organizations surveyed had insufficient operating reserves to cover three months of expenses — the minimum level many experts consider necessary to maintain financial stability. Forgoing reserves leaves nonprofits vulnerable to rapid or unexpected drops in revenue or jumps in expenses. This article explains why it’s necessary to have sufficient operating reserves, and offers questions a nonprofit should ask itself when trying to determine what is sufficient.

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  • When contributors receive something in return

    Spring 2012
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: “Quid pro quo” describes an arrangement in which a contributor gives money in exchange for something else. Whether it’s a supporter buying a ticket for a charity ball or an attendee at a charity auction successfully bidding on a hotel stay, such situations create an obligation for a nonprofit. This article describes the rules that determine whether a contribution is quid pro quo; how to value goods, services and auctioned items; and instances when quid pro quo reporting isn’t necessary.

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  • Excessive compensation — Can you satisfy the rebuttable presumption?

    Spring 2012
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 836

    Abstract: Exempt organizations across the country should be sensitive to the issue of excessive executive compensation. The IRS can impose excise taxes on the executive, and the organization will suffer reputational damage. Fortunately, a nonprofit can limit the potential liability of its members by taking advantage of a three-step procedure known as the rebuttable presumption. This article explains the three requirements for compensation arrangements to have a rebuttable presumption of reasonableness. A sidebar lists some of the issues that can create a conflict of interest for someone approving a compensation arrangement.

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  • Newsbits

    Winter 2012
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 480

    Abstract: This issue’s “Newsbits” looks at tax treatment of cell phones a nonprofit provides to its employees; how to find out who the biggest corporate givers are; and a new form that the IRS has published that not-for-profits should use to request determinations — other than initial exemption applications — about their tax-exempt status.

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  • Nonprofits without borders — Generating revenue from foreign sources

    Winter 2012
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 748

    Abstract: As the U.S. economy continues its rocky course, more and more organizations are thinking creatively and reaching beyond traditional geographic borders to pump up donations, membership, product sales and conference attendance — the activities that often drive revenue. While these initiatives can certainly pay off, it’s important to consider factors such as tax implications, payment issues and the necessity of building relationships with foreign donors.

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  • How to embrace accountability

    Winter 2012
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 599

    Abstract: Nonprofits need to embrace accountability to protect the organization and its people, to demonstrate openness and forthrightness in external dealings and to support the greater good. Embracing accountability also helps not-for-profits fulfill their fiduciary responsibilities to donors, constituents and the public. But how can nonprofits truly embrace this abstract term? This article discusses accountability in terms of governance, financial statements, communications and the organization’s mission.

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  • It’s all political — or is it? What nonprofits can and can’t do in campaigns

    Winter 2012
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 814

    Abstract: With election season heating up, not-for-profits must take care not to stray into prohibited political activity that could jeopardize their tax-exempt status. The IRS has addressed the acceptability of several common activities. This article discusses the dividing lines separating partisan vs. nonpartisan activities in areas such as voter registration drives, candidate appearances and business activities. A sidebar shows how tax law distinguishes between politics involving candidates and lobbying involving legislation; certain involvement is permissible.

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  • Newsbits – Can a donor deduct charitable expenses incurred at home?

    Fall 2011
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 427

    Abstract: This issue’s “Newsbits” discusses whether a donor can deduct expenses incurred at home; a study showing that about two-thirds of the surveyed not-for-profit executive directors are planning to leave their current jobs within five years; and IRS Notice 2011-44, which explains how a nonprofit that has automatically had its tax-exempt status “self-revoked” can request reinstatement retroactive to the date of the automatic revocation.

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  • The ins and outs of obtaining financing

    Fall 2011
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 594

    Abstract: Credit may still be tight, but a not-for-profit will increase its chances of securing financing if it understands the choices available to it. This article explains the differences between a line of credit and a term loan and explores tax-exempt bond financing as an alternative.

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  • When is income taxable?

    Fall 2011
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 830

    Abstract: A 501(c)(3) organization generally is required to pay tax on income that isn’t related to its main purpose — even if that income keeps the not-for-profit afloat. This unrelated business income (UBI) is something to watch closely, because if the nonprofit is ever audited, the IRS will likely scrutinize its records to see whether it has accurately reported UBI. This article describes the kinds of activities that generate UBI, along with some exceptions. A sidebar discusses whether charitable gaming is considered UBI.

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  • Ease on down the road – 5 tips for making your audit less stressful

    Fall 2011
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 672

    Abstract: This article offers five tips a nonprofit can use to make the audit experience run more smoothly for itself and its auditors. They involve being ready with the information; having realistic expectations of what the auditor will and will not do; minimizing risks throughout the year; being prepared to deal with any control deficiencies; and talking with the auditor on a regular basis, not just at audit time.

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