Financial Accounting & Tax

The Financial Accounting and Tax department at Vanderbilt University is responsible for overseeing the university’s financial operations and tax compliance. The department is comprised of a team of experienced professionals who serve as the single point of contact for all centralized accounting, financial reporting, and tax activities of the university, including:

• Preparing and analyzing financial statements to ensure the university’s financial health and compliance with accounting standards
• Managing the university’s tax obligations, including filing tax returns, handling audits, and ensuring tax compliance
• Providing financial guidance and support to other departments and units within the university
• Developing and implementing financial policies and procedures to ensure effective financial management and internal controls
• Collaborating with external partners, such as auditors and regulatory agencies, to maintain the university’s financial and tax-related records and reporting

The Financial Accounting and Tax department plays a crucial role in the overall operations and financial stability of Vanderbilt University, ensuring that the university’s financial and tax-related matters are handled with the utmost care and professionalism.

• Accounting Resources

  • Chart of Accounts
    • Chart of Accounts
    • COA & Organizational Structure Quick Reference Guide
    • Narrative Chart of Accounts and Account to PPM Expense Type Crosswalk
    • Chart of Accounts Segment Values
    • Functional Expense Code Training (NEW for FY25!)
    • VU Function Code FAQ
    • Function Code for Requisitions & Expense Reports
  • Month End
    • Period Close Day-by-Day Timeline
    • Monthly Close Schedule
  • Year End
    • FY25 Year End Close Calendar
    • FY25 Year End Close Schedule
• Capital Asset Training

  • Introduction to Capital Assets
  • Life Cycle of a Capital Asset
  • Tagging a Capital Asset
  • Depreciation of Capital Assets
  • Requisitions for Capital Assets
  • Inventory of a Capital Asset
  • Fabricated Equipment Request Form
• Financial Reporting

  • University Financial Report and Disclosure
  • OMB Uniform Guidance Report
• Tax

  • Sales & Use Tax Certificates of Exemption
  • Federal Tax-Exempt Status – Affirmation Letter
  • Form 990 Requests
  • Sales Tax Compliance
  • Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification (W-9)
  • Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT)
  • VU Marketplace – Tax Responsibility Agreement
• General Accounts Receivable (GAR) Training

  • Introduction to General Accounts Receivable (GAR)
  • How to Request a New Customer
  • How to Complete the Auto Invoice Master Template
  • How to Fill Out and Submit an AR Receipt