Non-profit organizations often require specialized accounting software to manage their finances effectively. These tools not only save time but also significantly reduce the risk of errors in financial reporting. Statistics show that organizations using such software experience a 30%-50% reduction in accounting errors on average.

QuickLook: Best Non-Profit Accounting Software

Benefits of a Non-Profit Accounting Software

Incorporating accounting software into your non-profit’s financial management can greatly enhance your organization’s efficiency, transparency, and accountability, ultimately helping you achieve your mission effectively. The benefits of using non-profit accounting software include:

Fund Tracking 

Non-profit accounting software enables you to efficiently track and manage funds from various sources, such as grants, donations, and program fees. This capability ensures that you allocate resources where they are needed most effectively.

Financial Reporting

With non-profit accounting software, you can easily generate comprehensive reports that showcase your organization’s financial health. This includes statements of activities, functional expenses, and net asset classifications. It’s a vital tool for presenting your financial status accurately to stakeholders and potential donors.

Compliance and Transparency

Staying compliant with regulations is paramount for non-profits. Non-profit accounting software assists in adhering to these regulations while providing transparency to donors, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies. It also helps maintain trust and credibility.

Donor Management

Building and maintaining relationships with donors is crucial. Non-profit accounting software allows you to create and manage donor profiles, track contributions, and generate acknowledgments and tax receipts. This ensures that you engage effectively with your supporters.

Ease of Auditing

Non-profits often undergo audits, whether by external auditors, regulatory bodies, or donors themselves. Specialized software streamlines the auditing process by providing organized and easily accessible financial records. This can save time and resources while ensuring a smooth audit experience.

Best Non-Profit Accounting Software

There are several accounting software options for a non-profit to choose from, but this list should serve as a starting point to help you narrow it down.

Aplos

Aplos is a user-friendly cloud-based accounting software designed specifically for nonprofits. It simplifies fund tracking, financial reporting, and donor management, helping nonprofits stay organized and compliant.

Key features:

• Fund accounting
• Donor management
• Grant management
• Budgeting
• Reporting
• Website builder
• Online donations
• Recurring donations
• Volunteer management
• Event management

Pricing:

• Starter plan: $59 per month
• Pro plan: $129 per month
• Enterprise plan: Custom pricing

Pros:

• Comprehensive features
• Easy to use
• Affordable
• Excellent customer support

Cons:

• Some features may be too complex for small nonprofits
• Mobile app could be improved

Get started with Aplos

QuickBooks Online Nonprofit

QuickBooks Online Nonprofit is a cloud-based accounting solution tailored to the unique needs of nonprofit organizations. 

Key features:

• Fund accounting
• Donor management
• Grant management
• Budgeting
• Reporting
• Payroll
• Invoicing
• Bill pay
• Time tracking
• Project management

Pricing:

• Core plan: $50 per month
• Plus plan: $75 per month
• Advanced plan: $150 per month

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Affordable
• Comprehensive features
• Excellent customer support

Cons:

• Some features may be too complex for small nonprofits
• Mobile app could be improved

Get started with QuickBooks

DonorPerfect

DonorPerfect is a comprehensive donor management software designed to help nonprofits cultivate donor relationships, streamline fundraising efforts, and optimize donation tracking. 

Key features:

• Fund accounting
• Donor management
• Grant management
• Budgeting
• Reporting
• Donor relationship management (CRM)
• Email marketing
• Event management
• Volunteer management

Pricing:

Pros:

• Comprehensive features
• Excellent customer support
• Strong donor management capabilities

Cons:

• Expensive
• Complex for small nonprofits
• Mobile app could be improved

Get started with DonorPerfect

Sage Intacct

Sage Intacct is a cloud-based financial management and accounting software designed for various industries, including nonprofits. It provides robust fund accounting capabilities, enabling nonprofits to efficiently manage their financial resources, track donations, and adhere to compliance requirements. 

Key features:

• Fund accounting
• Donor management
• Grant management
• Budgeting
• Reporting
• Financial planning
• Project management
• Customer relationship management (CRM)
• E-commerce

Pricing:

Pros:

• Comprehensive features
• Scalable for nonprofits of all sizes
• Excellent customer support
• Strong integration capabilities

Cons:

• Expensive
• Complex for small nonprofits
• Mobile app could be improved

Get started with Sage Intacct

Blackbaud Financial Edge NXT

Blackbaud Financial Edge NXT is a cloud-based accounting software that is designed specifically for large nonprofits. 

Key features:

• Fund accounting
• Donor management
• Grant management
• Budgeting
• Reporting
• Financial planning
• Project management
• Customer relationship management (CRM)
• E-commerce
• Performance management

Pricing:

• Starts at $10,000 per year

Pros:

• Comprehensive features
• Excellent customer support
• Scalable for large nonprofits

Cons:

• Expensive
• Complex
• Not suitable for small nonprofits

Get started with Blackbaud Financial Edge NXT

Wave Accounting

Wave Accounting is a free cloud-based accounting software that is designed for small businesses and nonprofits. It offers a variety of features to help nonprofits manage their finances, including invoicing, bill pay, expense tracking, and financial reporting. Wave Accounting is a good option for nonprofits on a tight budget.

Key features:

• Invoicing
• Bill pay
• Expense tracking
• Financial reporting
• Payroll
• Receipt scanning
• Project management

Pricing:

• Free plan
• Paid plans start at $20 per month

Pros:

• Free plan available
• Easy to use
• Wide range of features
• Good customer support

Cons:

• Less comprehensive than other accounting software
• Lacks some advanced features, such as fund accounting and donor management

Get started with Wave

Bloomerang 

Bloomerang is a donor management and fundraising software designed exclusively for nonprofits. It helps organizations build and maintain strong donor relationships, track donations, and analyze donor engagement. With its user-friendly interface and donor-centric approach, Bloomerang is an excellent choice for nonprofits focused on donor retention and fundraising effectiveness.

Key features:

• Donor management
• Donation tracking
• Fundraising and campaign management
• Communication tools (email and direct mail)
• Reporting and analytics
• Donor engagement scoring

Pricing: Available upon request

Pros:

• Tailored for nonprofits and donor management
• Focus on donor retention and engagement
• User-friendly interface

Cons:

• Pricing details may vary based on organization size and needs

Get started with Bloomerang

Zoho Books for Nonprofits 

Zoho Books for Nonprofits is a cloud-based accounting software that caters to the financial needs of nonprofit organizations. It offers features for fund accounting, expense tracking, financial reporting, and more. Zoho Books is known for its affordability and ease of use, making it suitable for smaller nonprofits.

Key features:

• Fund accounting
• Expense tracking
• Financial reporting
• Bank reconciliation
• Integration with other Zoho applications

Pricing:

• Affordable pricing starting at $9 per month

Pros:

• Cost-effective solution
• User-friendly interface
• Integration with other Zoho applications

Cons:

• May lack some advanced features required by larger nonprofits

Get started with Zoho Books

Key Features of Desktop Accounting Software to Consider

The following are some of the most important features to look for in a desktop accounting software program.

Automation Tools

Look for features that can automate repetitive tasks, such as invoicing, bill payments, and reconciliation. Automation can save you time and reduce the risk of manual errors, enhancing efficiency.

Customization 

Every nonprofit has unique needs. Choose software that allows you to customize fields, reports, and workflows to align with your organization’s specific requirements. Tailoring the software to your needs is crucial for accurate financial management.

Cloud Accessibility

Consider cloud-based software, which provides remote access and collaboration capabilities. This allows authorized users to work on financial tasks from different locations, ensuring flexibility and accessibility.

User-Friendly Interface

Seek software with an intuitive and user-friendly interface. This is especially important if your organization has staff members and volunteers who may not have extensive accounting backgrounds. Ease of use simplifies training and daily operations.

Training and Support

Evaluate the availability of training resources, customer support, and user guides. Ensuring that your team can effectively use the software and troubleshoot any issues is essential for a smooth transition and ongoing usage.

Support and Updates

Choose an accounting software provider that updates the software regularly and offers customer support. Staying up-to-date with the latest features and security enhancements is vital for the long-term reliability of your accounting software.

Tailoring Non-Profit Accounting Software to Your Needs

In the world of non-profit accounting software, the “best” option is ultimately defined by your organization’s unique needs. Whether you prioritize automation, customization, or accessibility, there’s a solution that aligns with your goals. 

By considering the key features discussed here, you can select the software that empowers your nonprofit to manage finances effectively, streamline operations, and further your mission with confidence. Remember, the right fit is the one that fits you.

FAQs

What is non-profit accounting software?

Non-profit accounting software is specialized software designed to help non-profit organizations manage their finances, donations, grants, and compliance with relevant regulations. It streamlines financial operations, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and accountability in financial reporting.

What are the key features to look for in non-profit accounting software?

Key features to consider include fund accounting, donor management, grant management, budgeting, financial reporting, automation tools, customization options, cloud accessibility, user-friendly interfaces, training and support, and regular software updates.

Are non-profit accounting software expensive?

The cost of nonprofit accounting software varies. Some cloud-based options offer free or low-cost plans, while comprehensive solutions with advanced features may come with higher price tags. It’s essential to assess your organization’s needs and budget when choosing the right software.

How does nonprofit accounting software benefit organizations?

Nonprofit accounting software offers several benefits, including efficient fund tracking, accurate financial reporting, compliance with regulations, improved donor management, streamlined auditing processes, and enhanced transparency. These benefits help organizations manage their finances effectively and build trust with stakeholders.

How do I choose the right nonprofit accounting software for my organization?To choose the right nonprofit accounting software, start by assessing your organization’s needs and budget. Consider key features, customization options, ease of use, and available training and support. It’s also helpful to read reviews, request demos, and compare multiple software options to make an informed decision that aligns with your organization’s goals.