Accurate record-keeping is crucial on many levels. There are different aspects of record-keeping and each one is important. As a best practice and in accordance with Grand Lodge Statutes, all monies should be passed through the Secretary before reaching you.

Income Received - Donations 

• Fundraisers, events and donations
• Lodge revenue

Expenses

• Use Lodge supplies and overhead
  • Utilities, rent/mortgage, food and beverages
  • Other supplies for the operation of a Lodge
• Employee Salaries, if applicable
• Subscriptions or memberships, if applicable
  • Accounting system/software
  • Other computer programs
  • Internet/cable/phone service
• Misc. 

Expenses - Grand Lodge & FSEA Dues

• Maintain these records, obtaining up to date information, as amounts change each year.
  • Lodges should never absorb an increase to avoid increasing memberhsip fees.

Committees

• Keep a separate spreadsheet or accounting folder for each committee.
  • If you are using Quickbooks, a separate spreadsheet is not necessary, as this can be captured with proper categorization and classification within Quickbooks.
• See the committee's prior years records for reference, best practices, and for ideas for improvement.