Executive Compensation and Nonprofit Tax Risk: A 2026 Planning Reminder
Executive compensation is an important governance issue for nonprofit organizations. Competitive pay helps attract and retain effective leaders, but compensation decisions also carry tax, reporting, and reputational considerations. As organizations look ahead to 2026 planning, boards and leadership teams may benefit from revisiting how executive pay is reviewed
Charitable Solicitation Registration: What Nonprofits Should Know
For many nonprofits, fundraising is a central part of carrying out the mission. Annual appeals, online campaigns, event sponsorships, grant requests, and donor outreach all help support programs and services. But before an organization asks for contributions, it may need to consider charitable solicitation registration requirements. Charitable solicitatio
Building Operating Reserves: How Much Is Enough?
Operating reserves play an important role in helping organizations stay financially stable through uncertainty. Whether an organization is responding to delayed funding, unexpected repairs, revenue shortfalls, rising costs, or shifts in service demand, reserves provide flexibility when timing and cash flow do not line up as planned. For many leaders, the
Fundraising Events: Still a Strategic Tool or Losing Momentum?
Fundraising events have long been a cornerstone for nonprofit organizations and community initiatives. From gala dinners to golf tournaments, these gatherings have traditionally served a dual purpose. They generate financial support while strengthening relationships with donors. In recent years, however, many organizations are questioning whether these events s
Using Form 990 to Tell Your Organization’s Story
For many nonprofit organizations, Form 990 is viewed primarily as a compliance requirement. It is filed annually, reviewed for accuracy, and submitted to satisfy IRS obligations. Yet, this document serves a much broader purpose. It is one of the most visible and widely accessed representations of your organization’s mission, operations, and impact.&
Where Fraud Hides in NFPs and Why It Often Goes Unnoticed
Not-for-profit organizations operate with a strong sense of mission and trust. That same environment, while essential to fulfilling their purpose, can unintentionally create conditions where fraud risks go unnoticed. Limited resources, lean teams, and high reliance on trust often mean certain vulnerabilities are not immediately vis
Building Trust Through Structure: Key Internal Controls for Nonprofit Organizations
Nonprofit organizations operate in an environment where trust is essential. Donors, grantors, and stakeholders expect transparency and accountability in how funds are managed. Internal controls play a central role in meeting those expectations. While often associated with larger organizations, strong internal controls are just as important for smaller nonpr
Single Audit Requirements for Nonprofits: What You Need to Know
For many nonprofit organizations, federal funding plays a vital role in supporting programs and expanding impact. Along with that funding comes added responsibility, including audit requirements under Uniform Guidance. Understanding when these requirements apply and what options may be available can help nonprofit leaders stay informed and prepared as their org
When Is the Right Time for a Nonprofit to Bring in an Outsourced CFO?
Many nonprofits begin with lean operations and limited financial complexity. In the early stages, basic bookkeeping and periodic oversight may be enough to meet reporting needs. As organizations grow, however, financial management becomes more demanding. Leadership teams often find themselves asking whether their current approach still supports t
Making Sense of Audit, Review, and AUP Engagements
Selecting the right level of financial statement service is an important decision for any organization. Whether driven by lender requirements, grant compliance, or internal governance priorities, understanding the differences between an audit, review, and agreed-upon procedures (AUP) engagement can help leadership teams align their reporting approach