FASB Changes to Accounting for Collections

By Keiter CPAs | Not-for-Profit Team

ASU 2019-03, Not-for Profit Entities (Topic 958) specifically addresses the use of proceeds from sales of collections and related disclosures.

In March 2019, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2019-03, Not-for Profit Entities (Topic 958): Updating the Definition of Collections. This ASU specifically addresses the use of proceeds from sales of collections and related disclosures. Previously, entities were not required (though could elect) to recognize contributions of works of art, historical treasures, and similar assets if the donated items were added to collections and met these three conditions:

• Held for the public,
• Preserved and protected,
• The proceeds from any sale of such items could only be used to acquire additional items for collections.

With the new ASU, the restriction on use of proceeds is expanded to allow for such funds to also be used for direct care of existing collections. This policy should be disclosed in the financial statements, along with the entity’s definition of “direct care”. The amendments in this update are effective for annual financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and for interim periods with fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020, with early adoption permitted. The amendments should be applied on a prospective basis.

Questions on this topic or other not-for-profit accounting regulation changes? Our not-for-profit team can help. Contact us: Email | 804.747.0000

Additional Not-for-Profit Resources

• Mission Possible: Profile of an Effective Not-for-Profit Governing Board
• Implementing ASU 2016-14: Board Designated Net Assets
• Statement of Cash Flows and Investment Return Changes: Impact on Nonprofits