Glossary
Accounting Basics

Posting

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
June 16, 2025

DEFINITION:

Posting is moving financial data from journals to the general ledger, making sure all transactions are accurately recorded.
Posting is the process of transferring financial information from journals to individual accounts within the general ledger. In nonprofit accounting, transactions such as donations, expenses, and grants are first recorded in a journal. Posting ensures these entries are accurately reflected in the organization's ledger accounts, providing a comprehensive record of all financial activity. Regular posting helps maintain up-to-date account balances, supports transparent reporting, and simplifies the reconciliation process. Timely and accurate posting is essential for tracking the financial health of a nonprofit, ensuring accountability, and preparing reliable financial statements.

Key Takeaways

  • Transfers journal entries to the general ledger
  • Ensures account balances are up to date
  • Supports accurate financial reporting
  • Facilitates easier reconciliation
  • Critical for nonprofit transparency

Why It Matters

Accurate posting ensures reliable records for reporting, auditing, and decision-making.

Real World Example

A community food bank receives a $5,000 grant. The bookkeeper records the grant receipt in the cash receipts journal. At the end of the week, the bookkeeper posts the transaction from the journal to the appropriate accounts in the general ledger—crediting the grant revenue account and debiting the bank account. This ensures that the food bank’s financial statements accurately reflect the new grant income and the increased cash balance. Regular posting like this allows the food bank to monitor its resources, plan future programs, and provide transparent reporting to stakeholders.

How Aplos Helps

In Aplos, posting is streamlined through automated features that transfer transactions from journals to the correct ledger accounts. The platform helps nonprofits maintain accurate records, making it easier to generate reports, reconcile accounts, and ensure compliance.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is posting in accounting?

Posting is the process of transferring transactions from the journal to the general ledger in accounting.

Why is posting important for nonprofits?

It ensures financial records are accurate and up to date, supporting transparency and compliance.

How does Aplos help with posting?

Aplos automates posting, reducing manual work and helping nonprofits keep precise and current financial records.

When should posting be done?

Posting should be done regularly, such as daily or weekly, to keep accounts accurate and complete.