The AEM Blog

Top-shelf insights and resources from our small business to yours—on the house!

Restricted funds are essential to nonprofit accounting, but they are often misunderstood. Learn the difference between restricted and unrestricted funds, why they matter, and how proper tracking supports your organization’s mission. One of the most important concepts in nonprofit accounting is also one of the most misunderstood: restricted funds. Whether your organization receives grants, major […]

Accounting, Non-Profits, Quickbooks

July 7, 2026

Understanding Restricted Funds: A Guide for Nonprofits

DIY bookkeeping works for many businesses in the beginning, but there comes a point when it may hold you back. Learn the signs you’ve outgrown doing your own bookkeeping. When you first start a business, wearing multiple hats is part of the journey. You’re the owner, marketer, customer service representative, and bookkeeper—all at once. For […]

Non-Profits, Quickbooks, Small Business

July 3, 2026

Signs You’ve Outgrown DIY Bookkeeping

Poor bookkeeping can create challenges for nonprofits, from grant reporting issues to audit complications. Learn the five most common bookkeeping mistakes and how to avoid them. Running a nonprofit comes with enough challenges without adding financial stress to the mix. Strong bookkeeping isn’t just about staying organized. Accurate financial records help nonprofits maintain compliance, support […]

Accounting, Non-Profits, Uncategorized

June 23, 2026

Top 5 Bookkeeping Mistakes Nonprofits Make

When you’re first starting a business, handling your own bookkeeping often makes sense. Many business owners begin with spreadsheets, accounting software, or a shoebox full of receipts and simply do the best they can. But as your business grows, there comes a point when DIY bookkeeping starts costing more than it saves. If you find […]

Non-Profits, Quickbooks, Resources, Small Business, Uncategorized

June 19, 2026

When to Upgrade From DIY Bookkeeping to Professional Bookkeeping

Running a nonprofit requires balancing mission, programs, fundraising, grant compliance, and board expectations. In the midst of serving the community, bookkeeping can easily become something that only receives attention during tax season or before the annual audit. Unfortunately, waiting until year-end often creates unnecessary stress and can make it harder to make informed decisions throughout […]

Accounting, Non-Profits, Resources

June 8, 2026

Why Monthly Bookkeeping Matters for Nonprofits

Wondering if it’s time to stop DIY bookkeeping? Learn the signs you’ve outgrown managing your own books and when professional support makes sense. When to Upgrade From DIY Bookkeeping to Professional Support At the beginning of a business, doing your own bookkeeping often makes sense. You are keeping costs low, learning as you go, and […]

Accounting, Non-Profits, Quickbooks, Small Business

May 27, 2026

When to Upgrade From DIY Bookkeeping to Professional Support

You don’t need to memorize every line of your financial reports. But there are a few key numbers every business owner should know without having to dig through spreadsheets or wait for tax season. These numbers give you clarity. And clarity creates confidence. Here are the five financial numbers that matter most. 1. Monthly Revenue […]

Accounting, Non-Profits, Quickbooks

February 16, 2026

The 5 Numbers Every Business Owner Should Know by Heart

Many business owners look at their numbers once a year, usually at tax time. By then, it’s too late to fix small issues that quietly grew into bigger problems. Monthly financial reviews are not about micromanaging every dollar. They are about staying informed enough to make confident decisions and avoid unnecessary surprises. Here are the […]

Accounting, Non-Profits, Quickbooks, Resources, Small Business

February 9, 2026

Financial Reports Every Business Owner Should Review Monthly

Most business owners look at their numbers when something feels wrong. Cash is tight. Expenses look high. Tax season is approaching. But profitable, stable businesses do something different. They look at their numbers consistently, not reactively. Monthly financial check-ins are one of the simplest habits that separate stressed business owners from confident ones. Why Waiting […]

Accounting, Non-Profits, Quickbooks, Small Business

January 26, 2026

Monthly Financial Check-Ins: The Habit That Keeps Businesses Profitable

Most business owners only look at their Profit & Loss statement when their accountant asks for it at tax time. That is a missed opportunity. Your P&L is not just a tax report. It is one of the most powerful tools you have for understanding how your business is actually performing and where your money […]

Accounting, Client Case Studies, Non-Profits, Quickbooks, Resources, Small Business

January 19, 2026

What Your Profit & Loss Statement Is Really Telling You