The initial spark that ignited your passion for your nonprofit – the unwavering dedication to a cause, the desire to make a real difference – remains vibrant. However, navigating the intricacies of tax-exempt status can sometimes feel like entering unfamiliar territory, when trying to keep up with updated regulations to keep your organization qualified for its tax-exempt status. Let’s shed some light on the path towards tax-exempt status and what you need to do to maintain it once you get there.

When the IRS instituted annual reporting requirements for non-profit organizations, you might have thought they were bringing the famous Oscar Wilde quote ("No good deed goes unpunished") to fruition. While the need to track the progress of 501(c) organizations may cause some headaches, it can be a timely opportunity to effectively review the goals of the mission and ensure that good governance practices are in place. Here’s everything non-profit managers need to know to prepare for tax season.

In my work with nonprofits I see that any organization without a substantial base of operating cash can experience cash flow problems. Small to mid-size nonprofits are often localized in an area without a large number of resources to draw from. The most important way to make the most of the resources your nonprofit has is to manage your cash flow.

During this "giving season" many nonprofit organizations participate in fund raising activities. When I talk with nonprofit financial leaders, I emphasize the importance of strategically seeking appropriate funds. Why? Not all revenue sources are relevant to the mission  - some actually add cost to the programs. 

In my work with nonprofit organizations, I see how critical their work is for the health of a community. I am also aware that many struggle with financial challenges. Successful nonprofits tend to have leaders that know how to maximize financial resources. They use concrete strategies to do so.

When I work with nonprofit leaders, I hear about the challenges they face with cash flow. Nonprofits have historically faced a unique funding situation due to the variability of grant funding cycles and donor contributions. I recommend a tool – cash flow projection – that can help organizations maintain financial viability today and in the future.

In my work with nonprofits I see that any organization without a substantial base of operating cash can experience cash flow problems. What causes them? There are many factors unique to the nonprofit business model, such as seasonal fundraising, annual grant payments, and reimbursement-based contracts. I advise nonprofit leaders to focus on the organization's cash flow. 

Nonprofits address critical needs in the community. They promote awareness of issues, provide services that might otherwise be unmet, and can organize a community to make a difference. Unfortunately, nonprofits also tend to struggle with financial challenges. Successful nonprofit leaders, use concrete strategies to maximize financial resources.

Any nonprofit that lacks a substantial base of operating cash can experience cash flow problems. What causes them? There are many factors unique to the nonprofit business model, such as seasonal fundraising, annual grant payments, and reimbursement-based contracts. Nonprofit leaders need knowledge of how the organization's cash flows, and what to do if it doesn't.

Is it necessary for nonprofit organizations to examine their policies every year? Changes that impact the organization, both internal and external, recommend an annual policy review.  Here are three types of changes that nonprofit boards should monitor.