Nonprofit
Showing 753–768 of 853 results
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News for Nonprofits – HOW CAN YOU FIND NEW STAFF?
April / May 2010
Newsletter: Nonprofit Agendas
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 474
Abstract: This issue’s “News for Nonprofits” looks at Web sites that are useful for recruiting personnel; a survey addressing donor contribution trends; and new, lower IRS mileage rates for employees who use their vehicles for work.
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Goodbye SAS 112, hello SAS 115 – Don’t over-rely on your auditors for financial statement prep
April / May 2010
Newsletter: Nonprofit Agendas
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 987
Abstract: Applying AICPA Statement on Auditing Standards No. 115, Communicating Internal Control Related Matters Identified in an Audit (SAS 115), will be required during the next fiscal year audit (for periods ending on or after Dec. 15, 2009). This new standard supersedes SAS 112 of the same title. As with SAS 112, understanding what constitutes “control deficiencies,” “significant deficiencies” and “material weaknesses” is key to applying the standard. This article shows how to spot control deficiencies, determine their severity, and book adjustments for them. A sidebar explains what constitutes a material adjustment.
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Get in shape – How to form — or improve — an audit committee
April / May 2010
Newsletter: Nonprofit Agendas
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 648
Abstract: Some states require not-for-profits with a certain level of annual revenue to have an audit committee in place. Others strongly encourage it. But, even without regulatory prodding, forming an audit committee allows nonprofits an opportunity to get financial experts involved who have knowledge of the audit process. But it’s important to adopt best practices, and make sure that participants are independent and have the right financial backgrounds.
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Outsourcing bookkeeping
April / May 2010
Newsletter: Nonprofit Agendas
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 497
Abstract: The economic downturn has many nonprofits strapped for cash and outsourcing routine functions to cut costs. Bookkeeping is one of them. And while outsourcing this task has many benefits — such as saving time, labor and resources — it also has a few drawbacks. But setting clear expectations and strong lines of communication from the start can usually ward off potential problems.
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News for Nonprofits – NEW M&A ACCOUNTING STANDARD KICKS IN
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Nonprofit Agendas
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 433
Abstract: This issue’s “News for Nonprofits” looks at Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 164, Not-for-Profit Entities: Mergers and Acquisitions, which offers guidance on merger and acquisition accounting and disclosures specifically for nonprofits, while also addressing the treatment of goodwill. Also mentioned in this issue are two surveys detailing executive compensation at not-for-profit organizations.
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Board-staff harmony
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Nonprofit Agendas
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 301
Abstract: Two planes flying in the same airspace need instruction from the tower to make sure they don’t collide. Likewise, a nonprofit needs to give direction to its board (and staff) — about “who does what” — to ensure that both reach their goals without distress. This can be especially important in a small organization. To avoid a collision, it’s important to make sure that board members receive a thorough orientation, work through the executive director when making requests of employees, and interact regularly with staff.
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Being “accountable” – Certain expense reimbursements not taxable in accountable plans
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Nonprofit Agendas
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 713
Abstract: Certain expense reimbursements and allowances aren’t viewed by the IRS as taxable income to the employee if they’re made under an accountable plan. In turn, if these amounts aren’t taxable income to the employee, they’re not subject to the employer portion of FICA taxes either. But there are four requirements for this type of plan: The expenses must have a business connection; they must be reasonable; there must be reasonable accounting for the expenses; and all excess reimbursements must be repaid in a reasonable time.
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Getting financing in today’s economy
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Nonprofit Agendas
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1103
Abstract: Nonprofit organizations, large and small, often consider borrowing money only as a last resort. But there are certain times when going to the bank is the right answer. This article discusses the steps necessary to prepare a loan application, and discusses the different kinds of loans available (line of credit, term loan, and tax-exempt bond) and the circumstances in which each may be most appropriate. A sidebar lists three bond options made available under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 that allows nonprofits to access more attractive and cost-beneficial tax-exempt financing through 2010.
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Newsbits – MASTERING FORM 990
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 423
Abstract: This issue’s “Newsbits” briefly discusses online instructions for the new Form 990; a new IRS rule that benefits supporting organizations; and 10 IRS tips for taxpayers that charitable organizations might want to publicize to encourage donations.
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A gift in hand … Know the right way to report donations of services and gifts in kind
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 867
Abstract: Donations of services and gifts in kind can be useful to an organization during tough economic times. But should they be booked in a nonprofit’s financial statements? And, if so, what amounts should be assigned? This article discusses two types of donated services a nonprofit can recognize — services creating or enhancing a nonfinancial asset, and those needing specialized skills — and also how to handle gifts in kind. A sidebar looks at the new Accounting Standards CodificationTM that replaces the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s patchwork of statements, interpretations and other guidance.
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Time well spent – 10 requirements for effective board meetings
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 575
Abstract: Time is money, it’s often said, and perhaps the most valuable time a nonprofit “owns” is at its board meetings. Good organization plus sensitivity to the people and issues involved can ensure that meetings are productive. This article offers 10 requirements for before, during and after board meetings, including providing the board with the appropriate amount of financial information, being sensitive to controversial issues, and making sure that everyone participates.
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While the going is good … How to negotiate a real estate lease
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 654
Abstract: With more leasable office spaces than creditworthy tenants to take them, many landlords are offering lower rates and other incentives. A not-for-profit organization with good credit has a real chance of finding a more suitable — perhaps even larger — space with attractive lease terms. Conversely, if a nonprofit is currently in a space it loves, it’s probably a good time to try to negotiate better lease terms. This article looks at not only the costs that should be planned for, but many other considerations as well.
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The pros of being proactive with the IRS
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 563
Abstract: As long as an IRS examiner isn’t knocking at the door asking specific questions, many nonprofit leaders don’t volunteer information. In some cases, however, it could be to their advantage to do just that. If, for example, a mistake is uncovered in a filing, taking a proactive stance with the IRS can help minimize potential hassles and penalties. It’s important to get professional advice, learn the facts, and keep a sense of perspective. The IRS is likely to be more amenable to finding a solution for nonprofits that approach it voluntarily.
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Managing payroll: In-house vs. outsourcing
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 417
Abstract: At a time when many nonprofits are scrutinizing every line item in their budgets, one item in the crosshairs is payroll processing. But the decision regarding whether to bring payroll back in-house should be studied from every angle. Who will manage it? Are there sufficient checks and balances ? What about technological capabilities? Before deciding that a payroll vendor is one of those costs that can be cut, it’s important to remember that they provide expertise and experience that may not necessarily exist in-house.
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Audits are essential to your organization’s well-being
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 730
Abstract: Audits take considerable time and effort, but they provide nonprofits with fair assessments of their financial health, in addition to revealing vulnerabilities such as weak internal controls, insufficient cash reserves and poor investment policies. And although the newly revised IRS Form 990 doesn’t mandate them, the IRS does ask organizations to discuss their audit activities, as well as the role their board plays in them. This article looks at the difference between internal and external audits, the role of the audit committee, and how to prepare for an audit.
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What makes governance “good”? A checklist for nonprofits
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 684
Abstract: “Good governance” is one of the hottest topics in the nonprofit world these days. Nonprofits have been strongly encouraged to adopt certain Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) regulations, and the IRS has revised Form 990 to include several questions regarding governance policies. What’s more, the increasing power of charity watchdog groups means that nonprofits must try to put a responsible face forward to the public. This article offers a checklist of recommendations that a nonprofit’s board might follow, including forming an audit committee and regularly reviewing risk exposure. A sidebar discusses what constitutes “reasonable” executive compensation.