How do I keep books for a church or nonprofit treasurer role?

Good treasurer habits:

1. Two people count cash and both sign the count sheet before it is deposited.
2. Track restricted money separately, such as a building fund or missions gifts, so it is not spent on general bills.
3. Pay by check or bank transfer with an approved invoice, not from cash on hand.
4. Reconcile monthly and share the statement with another officer.
5. Report to the board with income, spending and fund balances.

IRS points to know:

• A donor cannot deduct a single gift of $250 or more without a written acknowledgment from the church or charity. Publication 1828 says the donor must obtain it, but the organization can help by sending timely statements.
• Churches are excepted from filing Form 990. Many other small charities with gross receipts normally $50,000 or less file Form 990-N.
• An organization that fails to file a required annual return for 3 consecutive years automatically loses its exempt status.

The ProfitDrawer church treasurer spreadsheet does not create giving statements or run payroll. This is general information, not tax or legal advice.