Here is a simple, step-by-step guide for using the Daily Cash Book app to keep your association's financial records up to date.

1. Getting Started

  1. Save the file: Save the code as cashbook.html on your desktop or laptop.

  2. Open the app: Double-click cashbook.html to open it in any web browser (Chrome, Safari, Edge, or Firefox).

  3. No internet required: You do not need an internet connection. All data stays saved directly in your web browser.

2. Entering a Daily Transaction

  1. Select Date and Type: Step 1.

Choose the transaction date and select whether it is an Income (+) or an Expense (-).

  1. Select Payment Method and Category:Step 2.

Pick how the money moved (e.g., EFT / Direct Credit, Cash, Card) and select the budget category (e.g., Membership, Rent, Grants).

  1. Set GST Treatment:Step 3.

  • Select 10% GST Included if the item includes GST. The app automatically calculates the $1/11\text{th}$ GST component for you.

  • Select GST Free / Excluded for items without GST (e.g., bank fees, GST-free grants, donations).

  1. Add Description and Amount:Step 4.

Type a clear description (such as the invoice number, supplier name, or member name) and enter the total dollar amount paid or received.

  1. Record Entry:Step 5.

Click the blue Record Entry button. The transaction will appear in the table below, and all totals will update instantly.

3. Understanding the Summary Cards

  • Total Income: Sum of all recorded incoming funds.

  • Total Expenses: Sum of all recorded outgoing funds.

  • Net Position: Your overall cash position ($\text{Income} - \text{Expenses}$).

  • Net GST Liability: Tracks your balance for ATO reporting:

    • Red number: You collected more GST than you paid (estimated amount owed to the ATO).

    • Green number: You paid more GST on expenses than you collected (estimated refund due from the ATO).

4. End-of-Month & Backup Best Practices

Crucial Backup Tip: Because data is stored in your browser's local cache, clearing your browsing history can erase your records. Follow these habits to keep your data safe for the required 7-year retention rule:

  • Export to CSV: Click Export to CSV at the end of every week or month. This downloads a spreadsheet compatible with Excel, Google Sheets, or your accountant's software. Save a copy to your cloud storage or backup drive.

  • Print / Save PDF: Click Print / Save PDF to generate a clean physical printout or PDF copy for committee meetings and auditor files.

  • Deleting an entry: Click the red Delete button next to any specific line in the ledger table if you make a mistake.

BAS Tip for Treasurers: When preparing your Business Activity Statement (BAS):

  • GST Collected (from sales/income) increases what you owe to the ATO.

  • GST Paid (on purchases/expenses) reduces what you owe (or increases your refund).

  • The Net GST Liability card on the top right gives you a real-time estimate of whether your association owes the ATO or is due a refund for the recorded period.