As Your Seattle Nonprofit Accountant, We’ll Save You Up To 40% in Admin Costs
Are You Frustrated By…
- Being off your mission and programs because you’re sidetracked by admin tasks
- Never being able to catch up on your books
- Looking like a fool in front of your board
- Missing out on funding opportunities because of disorganized financials
We’re the Perfect Seattle Nonprofit
Accountant for You, If:
What Seattle Nonprofit Accounting
Services Do You Need?
- Internal bookkeeping (including grant fiscal management)
- Audit representation
- CFO advisory
- Nonprofit auditing (we work with your external auditor)
- Tax services
- Short-term consulting
We’ll handle your books, save up to 40% on your overhead ratio, and secure current and new funding
So you can focus on your programs.
CPAs Who Have Mastered Accounting Services for Nonprofits
While most CPAs shy away from the confusing and complex nature of nonprofit accounting, we focus solely on it. After having worked with nonprofits with a budget of $1M+ for over 25 years, we understand how to do your accounting like few do. That’s why our clients love working with us.
We are a team of detail-oriented, can-do nonprofit accountants and CPAs who strongly value responsiveness, integrity, excellence, helpfulness, innovation, professionalism, and fun!
We look forward to working with you, so we can help you focus on your programs, reduce headaches, get more funding, produce perfect audits, and look amazing in front of your board, all the while reducing your admin costs.
Syd Highley, CPA | Daily Balance
Managing Principal Trusted by Nonprofits
“In addition to cutting costs for accounting, Daily Balance has been most responsive to our needs. ”
“Their ability to step in, respond quickly to needs, and offer cost-saving solutions has been an incredible asset.”
“Daily Balance has moved us beyond a tiny little non-profit to a thriving business!”
“With Daily Balance, we’ve been able to spend 99% of our grants last year and achieve a level of financial health and compliance that we couldn’t reach before.”
“Daily Balance's team of experts have a huge heart for non profits and the essential services they bring to enrich our communities.”
“The knowledge that Daily Balance provides enables me to make better decisions in my business.”
“Using Daily Balance bookkeeping and tax services does not cost you; it saves you stress, time and money.”
“Syd and his team discuss solutions with us and provide solid options to consider as we are making business decisions.”
“Not being distracted by accounting issues, I can focus on increasing sales and market penetration.”
Everything You Need for Financial Success:
Bookkeeper, Audit Advocate & CFO
Bookkeeper
Real-Time, Precise, & Audit-Ready Financials
- Ensure all transactions are posted to the correct general ledger and cost-center
- Optimize grant spending to obtain full grant awards
- Prepare grant invoices on a monthly/quarterly basis
- Record salaries, payroll taxes, and employee liabilities
Audit Representation
Financial Audits Made Easy
- Prepare detailed audit schedules and workpapers
- Manage all auditor inquiries and requests
- Reconcile discrepancies before audit submission
- Implement adjustments to meet compliance
CFO Advisory
Unmatched Financial Expertise Tailored to Your Needs
- Address cash flow challenges effectively
- Enhance financial stability and growth
- Guide you to the funding you want
- Optimize systems for scalable growth
- Develop a comprehensive long-term financial strategy
What You Get When You Hire Us
Virtual CFO
Advisory
In Just 90 Days, You’ll Get:
- An organized and efficient accounting system
- Enhanced internal controls
- Easy-to-use, cutting-edge software to enhance productivity
- Comprehensive ongoing support
- Compelling reports so you can take decisive action
We'll Integrate with Your Accounting Software
6 Reasons You’ll Want to Work With Us
Accurate & Auditable
- We are detail-oriented
- We get the job done no matter what
- We simplify the complex
Quick & Responsive
- We return phone calls promptly
- We are on call for you 24/7/365
- We meet deadlines
No Downtime
You’ll receive one point of contact, but you’ll also have access to our team so that there is never any down time.
We internally cross-train so that even if your contact is out, you’ll always get the quick responses you deserve.
Our name says it all: Daily Balance. We serve our clients daily so they never have to worry about key person risk again.
- Dedicated accounting manager, plus team interaction
- 24/7/365 access to your financial data
- Updated in real time
- High-tech tools to streamline your processes
Save Up to 40%
By outsourcing your accounting department to Daily Balance, you can save up to 40% on your accounting costs, while getting better expertise, service, and value. In-housing a full-time data entry person, bookkeeper, and an accountant means you’ll have to pay their salaries, payroll taxes, benefits, 401-K contributions, insurance, paid time off, workman’s comp insurance, training and administration expenses, and overhead costs (space, equipment, etc).
By hiring us, you’ll simply pay a flat monthly fee, which is often already included in your program funding anyway.
- Flat monthly fee
- Included in your program funding
Financial Audit Representation
As your advocate, we handle your annual financial audits and will answer ALL of the hundreds of questions the auditor will have on your behalf. You’ll be happy to know that you most likely won’t even need to be part of the process.
You can stop feeling anxious and rest assured because we’ll make sure there are no surprises when your audit comes around.
- Stress-free audits
- No surprises
Increase Your Funding
As a non-profit, the backbone of your organization is funding, and that only comes as a result of accurate and meticulous books.
You no longer have to endure missed grant opportunities because you fail to have all the financials in place.
Your funders will be so happy to receive your accurate and unquestionable financials, and so will your future funders, because as your CFO adviser, we’ll guide and advise you on how to diversify with new funding.
- Clean financials on-time to your funding sources
- Guidance on funding diversification
Plus, You’ll Be Able To…
- Spend less time worrying about money
- Be of real service to your constituents
- Run your organization more efficiently and effectively
- Make smarter organizational decisions
- Be highly respected by funding sources
- Look good in front of your board
- Realize your organization’s full potential!
Loved by Auditing Firms
“Because of Daily Balance’s efforts we are able to perform our audits, reviews and 990 tax filings with the highest level of efficiency.”
Steven Nicolson
Independent Nonprofit Auditor
Your World-Class Seattle Nonprofit Accountant
On-Call 24/7/365
No Surprises Guarantee
Proactive CPAs
Value-Focused Accounting
30-Day No Fault Agreement
Cloud-Based & Real-Time
Meet Your Nonprofit Accounting Team
Syd Highley
Amy Fryatt
Julie Asuncion
Norie Fabian
Tessa Joy De Vera
Ilonah Vivas
Let Us Lighten Your Load!
Book a call to discuss your nonprofit’s unique bookkeeping needs so we can provide you with actionable recommendations that will help you take control of your financials and make a bigger difference.
Fixed Fee
No Surprises
Guarantee
We believe in full transparency and respect, which is why we offer a fixed fee for our nonprofit bookkeeping services – it’s often already included in your program funding anyway.
Nonprofit Bookkeeping Resources
Nonprofit Accounting in Your Area & Beyond
Bakersfield Nonprofit Accountant
5630 District Blvd 102 Suite 202
Bakersfield, CA 93313
1 (661) 218-1122
111 N Canal St
ste 900 Floor 5 Room 7
Chicago, IL 60606
1 (872) 253-6677
Los Angeles Nonprofit Accountant
360 N Pacific Coast Hwy Suite 2000 Floor 3
El Segundo, CA 90245
1 (213) 463-8484
Sacramento Nonprofit Accountant
3835 N Freeway Blvd
Floor 1 Unit 11
Sacramento, CA 95834
1 (916) 999-5955
Your Next Steps
FAQs
Most Seattle nonprofits use the accrual accounting method, which records revenue when earned and expenses when incurred. This method ensures compliance with GAAP and IRS regulations. Some smaller nonprofits may use cash accounting, but accrual is preferred for tracking grants, donations, and restricted funds.
Nonprofits in Seattle must follow GAAP standards, maintain fund accounting, and file IRS Form 990 annually. Washington State requires registration with the Secretary of State’s Charities Division and may mandate audited financial statements if contributions exceed $3 million. Proper donor tracking and financial transparency are essential for compliance.
A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) helps nonprofits with financial reporting, audits, tax filings (Form 990), grant compliance, and internal controls. CPAs ensure nonprofits meet GAAP standards, IRS regulations, and donor expectations. They also provide strategic financial advice, helping nonprofits maintain sustainability and transparency in their financial operations.
Nonprofit accounting focuses on fund accounting, which tracks restricted and unrestricted funds separately. Donations, grants, and program revenue are recorded based on donor intent. Expenses are categorized as program, administrative, or fundraising costs. Nonprofits must follow GAAP, ensuring accurate reporting and compliance with federal and state laws.
A Statement of Retained Earnings is not required for nonprofits since they do not distribute profits to owners or shareholders. Instead, nonprofits use a Statement of Financial Position (balance sheet) and a Statement of Activities (income statement) to report assets, liabilities, revenue, and expenses while ensuring accountability.
A nonprofit organization exists to serve a mission-driven purpose rather than generate profit for owners or shareholders. It reinvests revenue into programs and services that benefit the community. Nonprofits qualify for tax-exempt status (501(c)(3) or similar) and rely on grants, donations, and fundraising to operate.
1 Fun & 1 Interesting Fact About Seattle
Seattle is home to the world’s first Starbucks, which opened in 1971 at Pike Place Market. The iconic coffee shop still retains its original look, drawing visitors from around the world who want to experience the birthplace of a global coffee empire. The city’s deep love for coffee is evident, with Seattle having one of the highest coffee shop densities in the U.S., featuring countless independent cafés alongside major chains. Beyond coffee, Seattle is also where the world’s largest floating bridge exists—the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge, which spans Lake Washington. Officially named the Governor Albert D. Rosellini Bridge, it stretches 7,710 feet, making it the longest floating bridge on the planet. The design allows the bridge to remain stable despite the deep waters of the lake, a necessity since traditional bridges would be impractical due to the lake’s soft bottom.
Seattle Nonprofit Accounting Resources
What is the Washington Association of Accounting and Tax Professionals?
The Washington Association of Accounting and Tax Professionals (WAATP) is a professional organization dedicated to supporting accountants and tax professionals in Washington state. WAATP offers its members educational resources, networking opportunities, and professional development workshops to enhance their skills and knowledge in the field of accounting and taxation. The association also provides legislative advocacy and updates on regulatory changes affecting the accounting profession. By fostering a community of knowledgeable and ethical professionals, WAATP aims to improve the quality of accounting and tax services in Washington.
What is the Washington Board of Accountancy?
The Washington State Board of Accountancy is a regulatory body that governs the accounting profession in Washington State. It is responsible for licensing and regulating Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and CPA firms to ensure compliance with state laws and professional standards. The Board oversees the examination process for CPA candidates, maintains standards for continuing professional education, and enforces ethical practices among its licensees. By doing so, it protects the public by ensuring that accounting services are provided by qualified and ethical professionals. The Board also handles complaints and disciplinary actions to uphold the integrity of the accounting profession.
Seattle, WA Local Resources
Nonprofit Accountant Firm
Seattle
3835 N Freeway Blvd
Floor 1 Unit 11
Sacramento, CA 95834
(916) 999-5955
Top Companies in Seattle, WA
More About Nonprofit Accounting in Seattle, Washington
Seattle, Washington, is a bustling urban hub renowned for its scenic landscapes, including vast waterfronts and forested areas. As of recent estimates, Seattle’s population is approximately 750,000, making it the largest city in Washington state and a major player on the West Coast. Known for its rainy climate, the city also boasts a diverse demographic, with a significant representation of Asian, African American, and Hispanic communities alongside the majority Caucasian population. This rich cultural mix is reflected in the city’s wide array of festivals, culinary offerings, and cultural institutions.
Residents of Seattle are known for their environmentally conscious and tech-savvy nature, which aligns with the city’s strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation. The city serves as home to major technology companies, influencing the local culture and economy. Seattleites are typically engaged in various forms of activism, particularly in environmental and social justice causes, mirroring their community-oriented and progressive values. This blend of technological influence and commitment to sustainability shapes the unique character of Seattle, fostering a community that is both forward-thinking and deeply connected to its natural surroundings.
Nonprofit accounting in Seattle follows GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) and IRS regulations, with most organizations using accrual accounting for accurate financial tracking. Nonprofits must properly manage restricted and unrestricted funds, ensuring compliance with donor intent and grant requirements. Seattle-based nonprofits file IRS Form 990 annually and may require independent audits or financial reviews, depending on funding sources and state regulations. The Washington Secretary of State’s Charities Division oversees nonprofit registrations and compliance.
Major accounting concerns include grant tracking, expense allocation, and financial transparency. Many nonprofits seek specialized accounting services from firms like Clark Nuber, Jacobson Jarvis & Co., and Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC), which provide audit support, bookkeeping, and compliance consulting. Local resources like the 501 Commons and the Nonprofit Assistance Center offer training, financial management guidance, and capacity-building support. Nonprofits also benefit from Seattle Foundation grants, which require strong financial accountability.
Seattle organizations commonly use QuickBooks for Nonprofits, Aplos, or Blackbaud for bookkeeping and reporting. To maintain financial health, nonprofits must implement strong internal controls, board oversight, and long-term financial planning, ensuring sustainability in the city’s competitive nonprofit sector.
Daily Balance offers bookkeeping, audit representation, and CFO services for nonprofit organizations in the Seattle area so they can focus on their mission/programs, rather than their financials. Our clients love our quick response time, fixed fees, and our proactive solutions.