The treasurer of a 501(c)(3) organization serves as the primary financial steward. Their main responsibility is to provide oversight and ensure the organization's long-term financial health and legal compliance.
Core Responsibilities
• Financial Oversight: Manage or oversee all financial affairs, including selecting banking institutions, managing cash flow, and ensuring the organization remains solvent.
• Budgeting & Planning: Lead the preparation of the annual budget and regularly monitor actual revenue and expenses against these projections.
• Compliance & Filings: Ensure timely and accurate filing of all required tax documents, including IRS Form 990 and state-level charitable registrations.
• Financial Reporting: Present clear financial reports at each board meeting, translating complex data into understandable information for other board members.
• Internal Controls: Establish and maintain a system of internal checks and balances (e.g., check-signing authority and expense reimbursement policies) to prevent fraud and errors.
• Audit Management: Act as the board’s point person during annual audits or financial reviews.
• Strategic Advice: Serve as the chair of the finance committee and advise on fundraising strategies or large expenditure plans.