When it comes to finance, non-profit and for-profit organizations have some similarities but ultimately have to follow different rules, especially when it comes to accounting. It is important for everyone involved in your non-profits financing, from the executive director to donors to investors, to know these differences so that all rules are followed.
Some of the biggest differences between these a non-profit accounting system and a for profit business include:
Revenue Recognition
Non-profit and for-profit accounting differ primarily in the way they recognize revenue. A for-profit business recognizes revenue based on the sale of goods or services, while non-profits often receive funds through donations, grants, and fundraising activities. This means that non-profit organizations have to follow accounting rules for recording contributions, which can be complicated. It is important for non-profits to understand these accounting best practices so your non-profit financial reporting is accurate.
Net Assets vs. Equity
When it comes to accounting, there are different rules for for-profit businesses and non-profit organizations. For-profit businesses have something called “equity,” which represents the owners’ share of the profits. In non-profit organizations, the equivalent is called “net assets.”
The main difference between equity and net assets is that for-profit businesses have the freedom to distribute their profits amongst the owners or shareholders, whereas non-profit organizations cannot. Instead, non-profits are required to use their net assets in specific ways as per the rules established by their donors.
That is why it is important to accurately classify the net assets of non-profits as it influences how they report their financial status and use the money they receive.
Focus on Mission vs. Profitability
For-profit businesses are all about profitability and growth, with the goal of maximizing shareholder value while non-profit organizations direct their resources towards achieving their mission. This objective plays a crucial role in shaping their financial statements, since non-profits focus on fund accounting and how they will use their resources to meet mission-centric goals.
Different Financial Statements
Both non-profit and for-profit organizations keep track of their financial status in similar ways, but with some differences in the terms they use. Non-profits create a statement of financial position that is like a balance sheet, and a statement of activities that is similar to an income statement. But they also make a statement of functional expenses that explains how the expenses are related to program services and supporting services.
Tax Reporting and Regulatory Compliance
Non-profits have different tax obligations that require unique reporting and tax compliance guidelines. While for-profit companies are obligated to pay corporate income taxes and comply with a plethora of regulatory requirements, nonprofits have tax-exempt status under IRS Section 501(c)(3) or similar provisions.
But, this only applies if they follow specific conditions regarding their operations and financial transparency. That is why meticulous record-keeping and financial reporting practices are critical to maintain financial transparency and keep their tax-exempt status.
