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Frequently Asked Questions

At Array Accounting & Consulting, we address both common accounting inquiries and questions about our services. Our FAQ page provides clear answers on topics such as financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance, as well as insights into our controller consulting services, fractional CFO, and other non-profit accounting services.

  • What is financial reporting?
    Communication of financial information to stakeholders.
  • What is a financial reporting standard?
    Guidelines for preparing and presenting financial statements.
  • What is the objective of financial reporting?
    To provide accurate, relevant financial information for decision-making.
  • Why is financial reporting important?
    Ensures transparency, aids decision-making, and fulfills regulatory requirements.
  • What is financial forecasting?
    Predicting future financial performance.
  • How to create a financial forecast?
    Use historical data, industry trends, and assumptions to create projections.
  • What is a financial forecast?
    A prediction of future financial performance.
  • What is risk management in business?
    Process of identifying, assessing, and controlling threats to an organization’s capital and earnings.
  • Why is risk management important?
    Protects assets, reputation, and helps achieve business objectives.
  • What is a risk management plan?
    Document outlining how an organization will handle potential risks.
  • What is third party risk management?
    Process of analyzing and controlling risks associated with outsourcing to third-party vendors.
  • What is the primary objective of operational risk management?
    To identify, assess, and mitigate risks in day-to-day operations.
  • How is non profit accounting different from regular accounting?
    Nonprofits focus on fund accounting, donor restrictions, and different revenue recognition principles.
  • What is accounting for non profit organizations?
    Managing finances to support the organization’s mission, comply with regulations, and demonstrate accountability.
  • What are the basic nonprofit financial statements?
    Income statement, balance sheet, and statement of cash flows.
  • Grants for nonprofit organizations?
    Various grants are available for nonprofits, depending on their mission and focus.
  • Donation tracking software for nonprofits?
    Software to track donations, donor information, and acknowledgements.
  • What is the role of a CFO in a non profit organization?
    Manages finances, ensures compliance, and supports the organization’s mission.
  • Nonprofit consultant rates?
    Rates vary based on experience, expertise, and scope of services.
  • How much does an audit cost for a small nonprofit?
    Costs vary depending on the size of the organization and the scope of the audit.
  • When is an audit required for a nonprofit?
    Donors can visit the IRS website and use the Tax Exempt Organization Search tool to find and download publicly available Form 990s for free. This is a direct way to view the financial disclosures and operational summaries of a nonprofit.
  • Who performs strategic planning?
    Typically done by senior management or a dedicated planning team.
  • How often should a company revise its strategic plan?
    Regularly, such as annually or every few years.
  • How to create a strategic plan?
    Define goals, analyze the environment, develop strategies, and implement action plans.
  • Why is strategic planning important?
    Provides direction, helps allocate resources, and prepares for future challenges.
  • What services does Array Accounting offer for nonprofits?
    Array Accounting provides CFO services, controller services, and comprehensive accounting services tailored to the unique needs of nonprofits.
  • How can Array Accounting help my nonprofit with financial strategy?
    We offer financial planning and analysis, organizational capacity assessments, and insights into best practices to enhance your financial strategy.
  • What is included in your Nonprofit CFO services?
    Our CFO services encompass financial projections, dashboards, KPIs, and guidance on automation and innovation to maximize your nonprofit’s impact.
  • How does Array Accounting assist with audit preparation?
    We provide audit preparation assistance and support financial operations to ensure your nonprofit is compliant with accounting standards.
  • Can you help with grant tracking and compliance?
    Yes, we assist with grant tracking, maintain accurate financial records, and help maintain compliance with nonprofit accounting standards.
  • What are your qualifications in nonprofit accounting?
    Our team has over 15 years of experience in nonprofit accounting, specializing in GAAP compliance, fund accounting, and tailored financial services.
  • What is your process for onboarding new clients?
    We begin with an initial consultation and needs assessment, followed by a tailored agreement and a comprehensive financial analysis to develop strategic plans.
  • How does Array Accounting ensure financial transparency for nonprofits?
    We focus on continuous improvement by providing ongoing strategic insights and key performance indicators (KPIs) to enhance financial transparency.
  • Are your accounting services customizable?
    Yes, our services are customized to meet the specific mission, size, and goals of your organization, allowing you to focus on your core mission.
  • How do I get started with Array Accounting?
    You can make an inquiry through our website or contact us directly to schedule an initial consultation and discuss your nonprofit’s needs.
  • What outsourced controller services does Array offer?
    Array Accounting provides expert financial and accounting services, including month-end close oversight, financial reporting, budgeting assistance, and internal controls guidance.
  • How does Array assist with the month-end close process?
    Our outsourced controller oversees the month-end close, ensuring accurate data capturing, reconciliations, and timely financial reporting tailored to your organization’s needs.
  • Can Array help my nonprofit with budget preparation?
    Yes, our non-profit accounting assists in creating annual budgets that align with your nonprofit’s mission, facilitating effective planning and decision-making.
  • How does Array enhance financial efficiency for nonprofits?
    Our outsourced controller services provide financial expertise and process improvements, ensuring compliance with GAAP while allowing nonprofits to focus on their core missions.
  • What is the process for engaging Array’s controller consulting and accounting services?
    The process begins with an initial consultation, followed by a thorough analysis of your financial data, implementation of tailored financial processes, and regular reporting for ongoing support. Contact us for more information on our outsourced controller services.
  • What is a CFO?
    A Chief Financial Officer responsible for overseeing a company’s financial strategy.
  • What is the role of a CFO?
    Managing financial planning, analysis, and risk management.
  • What is a fractional CFO?
    A part-time CFO who provides financial expertise on a contractual basis.
  • What does a fractional CFO do?
    They offer strategic financial guidance and improve financial processes.
  • What is the CFO role?
    To drive financial strategy, manage risks, and ensure financial health.
  • What are virtual CFO services?
    Virtual CFO services provide remote financial leadership support and strategic guidance for businesses. A virtual CFO helps with budgeting, financial planning, forecasting, and reporting, offering the expertise of a CFO without the need for an in-house hire.
  • What does a fractional CFO do?
    Develops financial strategies, forecasts, optimizes cash flow, and guides strategic financial initiatives.
  • How much does a fractional CFO cost?
    The cost of a fractional CFO varies based on factors like the scope of services, the size of the business, and the CFO’s experience. Typically, rates are more affordable than hiring a full-time CFO and are often billed hourly, weekly, or monthly depending on your business needs.
  • What are fractional CFO services?
    Fractional CFO services provide part-time financial leadership to support businesses with strategic planning, cash flow management, cost optimization, and financial system improvements. At Array Accounting & Consulting, our fractional CFOs offer expert guidance tailored to your business needs, without the cost of a full-time CFO.
  • Is a fractional CFO worth it?
    Yes, for many organizations seeking high-level expertise at a reduced cost.
  • What is the disadvantage of CFO?
    High cost for smaller businesses and potential lack of full-time availability.
  • What services does a fractional CFO provide?
    Strategic financial planning, risk management, fundraising support, and performance analysis.
  • Role of CFO in a non profit organization?
    Oversees financial strategy, budgeting, compliance, and financial reporting for the organization.
  • How to find a CFO?
    Through networks, search firms, online platforms, and industry events.
  • How to hire a CFO?
    Define role, interview thoroughly, check background, evaluate fit, and negotiate terms.
  • What is accounting?
    Recording, analyzing, and interpreting financial information for decision-making.
  • What is accrual accounting?
    Recognizing revenue when earned and expenses when incurred, regardless of cash flow.
  • What is managerial accounting?
    Internal financial analysis for decision-making and planning.
  • What is full cycle accounting?
    Complete accounting process from transaction recording to financial statement preparation.
  • Are accounting fees tax deductible?
    Generally, yes, for business-related accounting expenses.
  • What is accounts payable in accounting?
    Amounts owed to suppliers for goods or services.
  • What is accounting in business?
    Recording, analyzing, and interpreting financial information for decision-making.
  • What is an accounting cycle?
    Series of steps for recording, classifying, summarizing, and reporting transactions.
  • Why is accounting important?
    Tracks financial performance, informs decisions, and ensures compliance.
  • What is activity based accounting?
    Allocating costs based on activities involved in production.
  • What is the difference between managerial and financial accounting?
    Managerial accounting for internal users, financial accounting for external users.
  • What is auditing in accounting?
    Examining financial records for accuracy and compliance.
  • How is auditing related to accounting?
    Auditing verifies the accuracy and reliability of financial information.
  • What do accounting firms do?
    Provide various services, including financial accounting, tax preparation, auditing, and consulting.
  • What is cloud accounting?
    Using cloud-based software for accounting tasks.
  • What is the governmental accounting standards board?
    Standards for U.S. state and local governments. Its goal is to ensure transparency and consistency in financial statements, aiding stakeholders in making informed decisions.
  • What are Generally Accepted Accounting Principles?
    Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) are a set of standardized accounting rules and guidelines used to ensure consistency, accuracy, and transparency in financial reporting. These principles help businesses prepare their financial statements in a way that is understandable and comparable across industries.
  • Why is accounting important?
    Provides financial transparency, supports decisions, and ensures compliance.
  • What is a controller in accounting?
    Oversees accounting and financial reporting functions.
  • What is the difference between bookkeeping and accounting?
    Bookkeeping records transactions, accounting analyzes and interprets information.
  • What is amortization in accounting?
    Allocating the cost of intangible assets over their useful life.
  • What accounting information do financial analysts use?
    Financial statements, income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
  • What are the IFRS accounting standards?
    International Financial Reporting Standards used globally for financial reporting.
  • Will accounting be replaced by AI?
    Unlikely, as accountants are still needed for complex analysis and decision-making.
  • What is auditing in accounting?
    Examining financial records for accuracy and compliance.
  • What is COGS in accounting?
    Cost of Goods Sold.
  • What is inventory in accounting?
    In accounting, inventory refers to the goods and materials that a business holds for the purpose of resale. It is considered a current asset on a company’s balance sheet and includes raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods that are available for sale.
  • Difference between cash vs. accrual accounting?
    Cash accounting recognizes revenue and expenses when cash is received or paid, while accrual accounting recognizes them when earned or incurred.
  • What is a chart of accounts in accounting?
    A structured list of all accounts used by a business.
  • Best practices for setting up chart of accounts?
    Use a standardized chart, be consistent, and regularly review and update it.
  • What is accounting software?
    Software used to manage accounting tasks and financial data.
  • How to choose the right accounting software for your business?
    Consider your business needs, size, and budget. Look for features like expense tracking, invoicing, and reporting.
  • Do I need accounting software for my small business?
    Yes, accounting software can help you manage finances, track expenses, and generate reports.
  • What is an outsourced controller?
    A financial professional who provides accounting and financial management services on a contract basis.
  • What are controller services?
    Financial analysis, reporting, budgeting, cash flow management, and compliance.
  • What does a financial controller do?
    Oversees accounting and financial functions, ensures accuracy, and provides financial guidance.
  • What is the role of a controller?
    Responsible for financial management, reporting, and compliance.
  • How does a controller help a company?
    Improves financial efficiency, provides insights for decision-making, and ensures compliance with regulations.
  • Fractional controller hourly rate?
    Varies based on experience, qualifications, and location.
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