Managing your foundation’s finances doesn’t have to be complicated. The practices below can help you stay organized, safeguard your assets, and ensure funds are used appropriately.
- Use one operating bank account.
If you make grants only once or twice a year and have few bills, consolidating transactions in a single account keeps bookkeeping simple. - Match cash on hand to upcoming needs.
Automate a monthly transfer from your investment portfolio—or move funds a few weeks before each grant cycle—so the checking balance always covers grants and routine expenses. - Spell out who can sign checks—and for how much.
A written policy should list authorized signers and require two signatures above a set dollar threshold. Many banks also offer controls that block unapproved withdrawals. - Treat credit cards and petty cash with extra care.
If you issue a card or keep petty cash, limit who may use it, cap the dollar amount, and restrict purchases to foundation business only. Clear rules help prevent self-dealing.
Need deeper guidance? The Foundation Guidebook walks you through money management, governance, grantmaking, and more—so your foundation can focus on making a lasting impact. Download the guide »
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