Managing the financial aspects of a non-profit organization can be challenging, but here are some accounting tips to help:

1. 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).

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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:

• Corporate Accounting 
• Farm Corporate Accounting
• Personal Accounting

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.

Hounjet Tastad Harpham are Trusted Saskatoon Accountants

Managing the financial aspects of a small business can be challenging, but here are some accounting tips to help small business owners:

1. Separate Personal and Business Finances: Maintain separate bank accounts and credit cards for your personal and business finances. This separation makes it easier to track business transactions, calculate taxes accurately, and maintain clear financial records.

2. Implement a Bookkeeping System: Establish a consistent bookkeeping system to track income and expenses. This can be done manually using spreadsheets or through accounting software designed for small businesses. Regularly update and reconcile your books to ensure accuracy.

3. Track and Organize Receipts: Keep a record of all business-related receipts, invoices, and expenses. Organize them by category to make it easier during tax time and to provide supporting documentation for deductions and expenses.

4. Stay on Top of Invoicing and Accounts Receivable: Promptly send out invoices to customers and clients, clearly outlining payment terms and due dates. Monitor your accounts receivable and follow up on overdue payments. Consider implementing an automated invoicing system to streamline the process.

5. Monitor and Control Expenses: Regularly review your expenses to identify areas where costs can be reduced or optimized. Look for opportunities to negotiate better terms with suppliers or find cost-effective alternatives. Managing expenses effectively can positively impact your bottom line.

6. Understand and Comply with Tax Obligations: Familiarize yourself with the tax requirements for your business, including income tax, sales tax (if applicable), payroll taxes, and any other relevant taxes. Stay updated on changes in tax laws and seek professional guidance if needed.

7. Plan for Major Expenses and Taxes: Anticipate major expenses and tax obligations in advance to avoid financial surprises. Set aside funds or create a budget to cover these expenses, such as annual taxes, equipment purchases, or lease renewals.

8. Seek Professional Assistance: Consider consulting with an accountant or tax professional who specializes in small businesses. They can provide valuable advice, assist with tax planning, ensure compliance, and help optimize your financial management.

9. Regularly Review Financial Statements: Understand and regularly review your financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. These reports provide insights into your business's financial health, help track progress, and identify areas for improvement.

10. Continuously Educate Yourself: Stay informed about accounting and financial management principles relevant to small businesses. Attend workshops, webinars, or seminars, and consider joining industry associations or networking groups to learn from other small business owners.

Remember, while these tips provide general guidance, it's important to consult with a qualified accountant or financial professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific business needs and circumstances.

Accounting Services:

• Corporate Accounting 
• Farm Corporate Accounting
• Personal Accounting

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.

Hounjet Tastad Harpham are Trusted Saskatoon Accountants