In this module, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how to complete bank reconciliations related to SAF. Monthly bank reconciliation of checking and investment accounts is a very important component of internal control of SAF funds. The SAF software has a bank reconciliation function which facilitates the procedure. Documentation of the reconciliation and other transactions is to be printed monthly, signed by the Principal, and documented on the Administrator’s Checklist. A Bank Reconciliation checklist is available to verify the steps have been followed.
Please click on the Student Activity Fund Quizzes link below to access the SAF Quizzes (Modules 2-13). You will receive a confirmation email once you are registered in Canvas LMS with instructions on how to access the system.
Know what sequence the accounts must be reconciled (i.e. which month to reconcile first)
Know the monthly deadline for bank reconciliations
Know what to do if an investment account does not have a monthly statement
Know what to do if there are outstanding checks dated more than 180 days prior to the reconciliation
Understand why the best practice is for the Principal to be the first one to open the bank statement, review and initial before forwarding to the office staff person for reconciliation with SAF
Know what reports should be printed each month after the reconciliation has been completed in SAF, which reports are signed by the preparer, and which are signed by the Principal
Understand the relationship between the monthly reconciliations and the Administrator’s Checklist (SAF-IC1)
Know what to look for when reviewing copies of cancelled checks
Know what to do if the wrong month end date was entered on the SAF reconciliation screen
Know what to do if the amount the bank recorded for a deposit or check is different than the amount recorded in SAF
Know how to file the documentation of the monthly reconciliations
Understand the reasons monthly bank reconciliation is important
Know the recommended segregation of duties
Know what to do if the bank statement does not reconcile to SAF
Know how and why to check for deposits in transit
Memo template for Outstanding Check