[Theo]

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 useful for keeping decisions consistent and transparent.

[Theo]

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 process much easier to manage.

[Theo]

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.

[Theo]

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.

[Theo]

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.