Using QuickBooks®’ nonprofit solution may sound like a good idea. However, there are several things to be aware of. Many nonprofits and churches try hard to get it to work for them. But they are often unaware of the required workarounds to get the reports they need. Watch the video to see how it may not be the best choice for your organization.

During this video, we do an in-depth walkthrough of how this platform tracks designated funds. We’ll show you the steps you must take to get to your Cash Balance by Fund, Income Statement by Fund, and Balance Sheet. Plus, we compare it to Aplos, a true fund accounting software based in the United States and made for nonprofits and churches.

What can true fund accounting software do that small business accounting solutions cannot?

Accounting applications specifically created for nonprofits and churches allow you to track designated money in multiple funds. Then you can pull reports based on those funds to track income and expenses. The ability to do all of this is called fund accounting. For more information, read a complete definition of fund accounting.

Trouble Tracking At The Fund Level

Like with most general business accounting programs, there is no way to easily track income and expenses for designated funds. Income is dropped into one general fund. Therefore, you must use a combination of sub-accounts, classes, external spreadsheets, or even separate bank accounts. Take a look online at our complete evaluation of QuickBooks® for Nonprofits.

The Verdict

Having a true fund accounting system will allow you to pass your annual audits, and produce reports for your board to show them your organization is using its money appropriately. Plus, your supporters will have the assurance that you are stewarding your resources in the way they have asked. Unfortunately, QuickBooks® does not make this easy.

To learn more about how true fund accounting is different, try Aplos Nonprofit Accounting Software for free.