Accounting

In the Kuali Financial System (KFS), billing entries are processed using one of the following methods:

Accounts receivable represents money that the university is expecting to receive from those who have not paid in full for goods or services provided. As such, it is an asset on the balance sheet. The receivable is increased when the amount owed to the university – from donors, grantors, customers and others – increases. To show an increase in accounts receivable, a debit entry is made in the journal. It is decreased when these amounts are settled or paid-off – with a credit entry.

An account payable is a liability on the balance sheet. An account payable balance increases as the money owed to providers increases and is shown by a credit entry. It decreases with the settlement or paying-off of money owed to providers – with a debit entry.

Accounts Payable is responsible for the following:

Accounting is more than counting money and keeping ledgers; it encompasses many different types of activities. It is a means to understand the present and plan for the future. It's about managing, recording, and reporting assets accurately to ensure the integrity and prosperity of businesses and institutions.

Accounting Services consists of many different areas that cover a range of functions. These functions work together, along with our campus partners, to accomplish appropriate stewardship of Cornell's financial assets.

For information on opening; maintaining; viewing, adding or editing; and closing accounts, see Set Up and Manage Accounts on the Financial Information Services website.

Moving to KFS changed some of our financial working processes. Two significant changes to current practices are described here:

Key Points | Principles for Consistent Org Use | KFS Organization Types | Organization Hierarchy | Organization Attributes

There are six KFS charts within the chart of accounts, but the Ithaca chart (IT) is the one most of campus will access and use. Data concepts are the same among the charts, but values like accounts and object codes may be different. The charts map at a high level for consolidated financial reporting.

When setting up an account in KFS, a Higher Ed Function Code (HEFC) is required. The HEFC is a four-character alpha/numeric attribute that indicates the specific purpose of the activity recorded in the account.

The HEFC is used for indirect cost calculations, administrative charge calculations, and required schedules in the financial statements.

Higher Education Function Codes and Descriptions (XLSX, 23 KB)