Accounting is an essential tool for the financial management of any organization, including Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). Through accounting, it is possible to register and control all financial movements of the organization, such as income, expenses, investments and loans.
For NGOs, accounting is even more important, as these organizations play a fundamental role in society and need to be accountable not only to their donors and sponsors, but also to society in general. In addition, transparency is a very important value for NGOs, and accounting is a way to demonstrate this transparency.
For an NGO's accounting to be efficient, it must be carried out by a trained and experienced professional in the area. The accountant in charge must know the particularities of NGOs, such as the form of fundraising, specific legislation and tax and accounting obligations.
One of the main characteristics of accounting for NGOs is the need to have strict control over donations received. Donations are the main source of funding for NGOs, and they need to be clearly and accurately recorded, so that there are no doubts about the origin and destination of these resources.
In addition, NGOs also need to have efficient control over expenses, so that resources are used in the most efficient way possible. Expenses must be recorded in detail, so that it is possible to identify where the largest investments are being made and where savings can be made.
Another important issue for NGOs is accountability. Accounting reports need to be clear and objective, so that donors and sponsors can understand how resources are being used. In addition, NGOs also need to be accountable to government bodies, such as the Public Ministry and the Court of Auditors.
In summary, accounting is a fundamental tool for the financial management of NGOs. It allows efficient control over donations and expenses, in addition to ensuring transparency and accountability. For accounting to be efficient, it is necessary to have a trained and experienced professional in the area, who knows the particularities of NGOs and tax and accounting obligations.