HOA accounting is among the most complex tasks in HOA management. In any case, it involves tracking, recording, and reporting the financial activities of the community. Sound financial management is critical to ensuring the fiscal stability of the association. While HOA accounting can be daunting, understanding the basics of the different HOA accounting methods can help the board serve the community better. This guide explains the benefits of accrual accounting in HOA management.
Understanding HOA Accounting Methods
There are three primary HOA accounting methods. These include accrual, cash, and modified accrual HOA accounting. Accrual accounting records revenues and expenses in real-time, while cash HOA accounting records income and expenditure upon the exchange of money. Modified accrual HOA accounting combines aspects of cash and accrual accounting.
What Is Accrual Accounting?
As stated, accrual HOA accounting records the association’s income and expenditures as they occur. It reports earned revenues and incurred expenses as opposed to received payments and paid expenditures, giving the association an accurate breakdown of its financial status.
Benefits of Using Accrual Accounting in HOA Management
Here is why accrual accounting for HOA is the best accounting method:
Accuracy
Accrual accounting is the most accurate HOA account method. It records income and expenses as they occur, giving a clear picture of your HOA’s financial situation. It can help the association manage all its economic activities smoothly and seamlessly.
Financial Reporting
Since the HOA receives real-time data on income and expenditure, the treasurer can prepare cash flow statements to monitor financial activities within the association. Moreover, accrual accounting makes HOA management less complex since accountants can use available data to prepare accurate financial reports.
Strategic Planning
Another reason why accrual accounting is the best HOA accounting method is that it helps the community in strategic planning. HOAs can project future financial activities, enabling better strategic planning. They can quickly tell whether a cash flow shortage might occur based on current data.
GAAP Compliance
Accrual accounting complies with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. The GAAP guidelines regulate the accounting sector, making accrual accounting a practical solution for HOA accounting.
Enlist Professional HOA Accounting Services
Most associations outsource HOA accounting services to professionals to guarantee accuracy and compliance. Abel Accountants have the experience to handle all your HOA accounting needs. Contact us today for expert HOA bookkeeping in Atlanta and learn more about our accounting services.
