When looking at nonprofit finances, overhead ratios tell only a fraction of the story. I think it is worth considering operating reserves, revenue diversity, and whether the organisation publishes clear annual reports. Donors may also learn more by looking at unrestricted cash flow rather than focusing too heavily on administrative percentages.… Read more

When considering nonprofit tech stacks, the sheer number of platforms can feel rather overwhelming. I would start with a simple list of what you actually need before chasing shiny integrations. Things tend to work better when leadership has a clear direction, because even good software cannot resolve an unclear strategy. Peer communities like this… Read more

Reserve investing is one of those quieter areas that can have a big impact. In my experience, a conservative mix of short-term bonds and money market funds can help balance accessibility with a reasonable return. The right approach will depend on the organisation’s circumstances and investment policy. A clear investment policy statement is also u… Read more

Government funding can be a bit of a double-edged sword, can it not? In my experience, it is worth allowing some of the grant budget for compliance work, such as tracking, audits, and staff time. The exact amount will depend on the grant, but planning for these costs early can prevent surprises later. Good accounting software can also make the… Read more

For learning Form 990 preparation, I’d start with the IRS instructions and prior completed returns before buying expensive books. There are also several nonprofit accounting courses and practical guides available online. Personally, I find working through an actual 990 alongside the instructions far more useful than simply reading theory.

Property use fees would not normally be treated as donations simply because the property is nonprofit-owned. I’d look at whether the payment is actually rental income, program service revenue, or something else. The Form 990 instructions are worth checking carefully here, as the classification can affect reporting.

I don’t think a 990 alone tells the whole story. It can highlight useful financial and governance information, but context matters when interpreting unusual figures. Looking at the organisation’s wider operations and recent history can provide a much clearer picture.

Jordan, I have been having the same problem too.
I think I’ll try Riley’s suggestion.

Thank you Eli.

I’ll try it out.

This has been an issue for me too. Thank you for sharing.