The success formula can be a tricky puzzle with many pieces to position in the right spot. Atlanta nonprofit organizations, whether focused on providing services to the homeless, low-income families or an association serving a specific profession, face many of the same challenges in reaching their goals. Not only do issues around fundraising and income generation require attention, but other areas such as program management, marketing, human resources, and donor management are also important. In addition, management must focus as well on accounting issues such as financial reporting, tax planning, compliance and more. To manage these priorities, nonprofits need to partner with experienced professionals who can provide guidance when needed. Finding the right nonprofit CPA to assist can be challenging because many firms appear to offer the same services and have similar credentials. So, how does one find the right nonprofit CPA firm?
To assist in the process, look for a firm with the following:
- Depth of Knowledge – While many CPAs have similar credentials, it’s essential to work with a firm with a broad depth of knowledge. Nonprofit organizations face a number of challenges as they evolve that require detailed knowledge and experience to navigate. For this reason, it’s essential to work with a firm that has more than a “few” nonprofit organizations as clients. Look for a firm that has nonprofit clients in various stages of maturity. Depending on your needs, it’s important to find a CPA firm that has commiserate experience with other organizations facing the same challenges and concerns as your organization. Remember, the greater the number of industry clients, the more well-rounded the firm’s knowledge will be on various issues. Finding the right nonprofit CPA means finding a provider with a broad depth of knowledge on the various issues your organization faces.
- Organizational Involvement – With the unique issues faced by nonprofit organizations, it’s important for a CPA to be up to date on the latest technical accounting pronouncement, governmental audit requirements and other issues that may impact your organization. One way to evaluate a CPA is to assess their involvement with state and local nonprofit accounting associations. When a firm is involved with these groups, it not only demonstrates their commitment to serving the industry but is a strong indicator they are familiar with challenges facing Atlanta area nonprofit organizations.
- Community Involvement – While not directly related to the firm’s ability to serve your needs, it’s important to work with a firm that is involved with community organizations. If a firm is committed to the nonprofit industry, then it makes sense that they would have a presence on various nonprofit Boards of Directors and serve in other financial management capacities. This is important because the involvement further deepens their understanding of the operational, financial and other management challenges faced. Naturally, the deeper the knowledge, the more effectively a firm will be able to serve your organization.
- Broad Professional Network – Beyond traditional accounting and compliance matters, nonprofit organizations may need assistance in other areas including human resources or legal advice. Firms with nonprofit experience often have excellent networks that clients can access as part of their consulting offerings, or as needed for a specific situation. Generally, these professionals work closely to collaborate and address a client’s need. The right nonprofit CPA will have an extensive professional network able to work through issues as they arise.
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When the time comes for your nonprofit organization to re-assess the accounting relationship, it’s essential to look for firms that have these characteristics. If you have questions about this information or need assistance with a nonprofit tax, accounting or audit issue, Wilson Lewis can help. For additional information please call us at 770-476-1004 or click here to contact us. We look forward to speaking with you soon.