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Accounting

Bank Deposit (Excel, 315 KB)

Use this form to send deposits to the bank. One physical deposit requires two copies of the form, and the form must correspond to exactly one line of the Advance Deposits tab of the AD e-doc.

  • Read more about Bank Deposit (Excel, 315 KB)

Correcting Unknown Variances

Unknown variances typically are discovered while reconciling asset (other than accounts receivable) or liability object codes. Typically variances are errors that may have accumulated over several years or the object code has not been reconciled. Making corrections may have material impacts to the university's financial statements and could be an indication that the process needs to be revised. Please consult with Accounting for guidance in establishing a new procedures.

  • Read more about Correcting Unknown Variances

Managing Restricted Gift Accounts

How Restricted Gifts Are Recorded in the Accounting System

Temporarily restricted gifts have a sub-fund of RGGIFT with the one following sub-fund programs:

  • Read more about Managing Restricted Gift Accounts

Writing Off Uncollectable Receivables

A write-off is an elimination of an uncollectible accounts receivable recorded on the general ledger. An accounts receivable balance represents an amount due to Cornell University. If the individual is unable to fulfill the obligation, the outstanding balance must be written off after collection attempts have occurred.

  • Read more about Writing Off Uncollectable Receivables

Interdepartmental Activity

Interdepartmental activity can be defined as the billing of goods and services provided by one university department to another internal department, reflecting internal revenue to the provider and internal expense to the customer. When documenting these transactions, only use object codes with a sub-type “ID” for interdepartmental activity.

  • Read more about Interdepartmental Activity

Abandoned Property

Need Help?

If you have any questions about abandoned property, contact Accounting.

  • Read more about Abandoned Property

Fund Groups

Fund groups categorize the characteristics and limitations placed on the resources recorded in accounts. They indicate the general category of funds, and are used to classify sub-fund groups into one of these categories:

  • External Organization funds
  • General funds
  • Contracts and grants
  • Government appropriations
  • Invested funds
  • Loan funds
  • Plant funds
  • Reserves
  • Restricted gifts
  • Read more about Fund Groups

Travel Advances and Prepaid Expenses

Travel costs are routinely incurred by staff members, faculty, and students on behalf of the university. Travel advances are funds occasionally issued to those eligible to receive them – in order to cover travel costs. Prepaid travel represents money already spent (e.g., flights, hotel expenses, etc.) in advance of expected travel. For accounting purposes, these funds are recorded as assets on the university’s balance sheet until they are depleted.

  • Read more about Travel Advances and Prepaid Expenses

Inventory Accounting Guidelines

Need Help?

If you have questions about inventories, contact Accounting.

  • Read more about Inventory Accounting Guidelines

Accounting Certification Program

Anyone in a service center role is required to complete the Accounting Certification Program within 18 months of employment and re-certify every 3 years.

The Accounting Certification Program (ACP) helps employees develop and enhance accounting skills and knowledge by providing an overview of the accounting function, as well as detailed training on the use of specific accounting tools and their associated policies and procedures. The ACP is constantly growing/changing. As core courses become available, you can take them individually and apply them to the certification.

  • Read more about Accounting Certification Program

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