Glossary
Budget & Forecasting

Budget Revision

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
June 16, 2025

DEFINITION:

A budget revision is an official change to an approved budget to accommodate new information, needs, or priorities.
A budget revision is the formal process of modifying an approved budget to reflect changes in an organization’s financial needs, resources, or priorities. This adjustment may be required due to unexpected expenses, new funding opportunities, shifts in program scope, or changes in economic conditions. Budget revisions typically involve analyzing the impact of proposed changes, obtaining necessary approvals, and updating budget documentation to ensure continued alignment with organizational goals. They help maintain financial accountability and flexibility by ensuring that resources are allocated effectively as circumstances evolve throughout the fiscal year.

Key Takeaways

  • Budget revisions update original budgets to meet changing needs.
  • They require proper documentation and approval.
  • Aplos provides tools for tracking and managing these changes.
  • Revisions ensure resource allocation stays aligned with goals.

Why It Matters

Budget revisions help organizations adapt to changes and maintain financial control.

Real World Example

A local animal shelter originally budgeted $10,000 for veterinary care for the year. Midway through the year, the shelter received a grant specifically for medical treatment, increasing their available funds. To reflect the additional funding and an increase in rescued animals needing care, the shelter’s management submits a budget revision. The revised budget now allocates $18,000 for veterinary services. This change is documented, approved by the board, and tracked in their accounting software, ensuring both transparency and the ability to provide better care for the animals.

How Aplos Helps

Aplos allows users to create, update, and track budget revisions within their accounting system. The platform streamlines the approval process and maintains an audit trail of all changes, ensuring transparency and compliance for nonprofit organizations.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What prompts a budget revision?

A budget revision is often prompted by unexpected expenses, additional funding, or changes in program priorities that require adjustments to the initial budget.

Who approves budget revisions in a nonprofit?

Usually, budget revisions must be reviewed and approved by the board of directors or executive management, following the organization’s financial policies.

How does Aplos help with budget revisions?

Aplos enables users to document, approve, and track budget revisions, maintaining a clear audit trail and ensuring transparency and compliance.

Can multiple budget revisions occur in a single year?

Yes, organizations may revise budgets multiple times during a fiscal year as circumstances and priorities change.