[Susan]

Laura, Say more about the struggle to identify the programmatic costs. Is it a systems issue (ie no way to note on a timecard which hours are program vs admin), or?

[Susan]

And Blue Avocado has this short intro article (and probably others as well): https://blueavocado.org/finance/filing-a-form-990/

blueavocado.org

A Beginner's Guide to Filing a Form 990 for Your Nonprofit Organization - Blue Avocado

For nonprofit organizations, filing a Form 990 can be overwhelming and confusing, especially if it's your first time. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about filing a Form 990, including six steps to take before, … Continue reading

[Susan]

It might be helpful to have both a reserves policy in place, and an investment policy. Those can guide your decisions about when you are in a position to invest, and how to invest (and of course can be revisited and revised if/when needed).

[Susan]

I agree that Gregg Bossen/QuickBooks Made Easy is a great resource. https://quickbooksmadeeasy.com/ His YouTube channel is also very useful. The organization I work with also provides financial management/bookkeeping support to nonprofits (501 Commons, https://www.501commons.org/)

quickbooksmadeeasy.com

QuickBooks® Made Easy™ for Nonprofits

Nonprofit Specific Training & Webinars

[Susan]

You might consider adding language (“fine print”) to any materials promoting the fundraising saying the funds may be used at the organization’s discretion–not necessarily for that project (for example if the fundraiser earns more than is needed). I believe this is a fairly common practice.