Guide to Account Types

Managing Account Types in ShulCloud

Account Types are the primary grouping variable in ShulCloud. Every account must have one Account Type, and the list of Account Types should be mutually exclusive. These classifications are essential for organizing accounts, enabling accurate reporting, and supporting targeted communication.

Why Account Types Matter

Account Types define the overall relationship between the synagogue and the account. Historically, many synagogues classified accounts based on dues amounts. ShulCloud recommends a more robust approach that considers:

Rights (e.g., voting privileges, seating preferences)

Responsibilities (e.g., volunteer expectations)

Relationship (e.g., communication needs)

This approach ensures that Account Types reflect more than financial status and support meaningful engagement.

Common Account Types

Most synagogues have three major categories:

1. Members
2. Non-Members
3. Organizations

Prior to ShulCloud, organizations were often classified as non-members. ShulCloud allows organizations to be defined as their own category. Within these major categories, sub-types are common. Synagogues using Account Types effectively typically have 6–18 separate types.
 

   

Best Practices for Account Types

Account Types should reflect the synagogue’s relationship with the account, not just financial details. Use Account Billing Type for dues or payment distinctions.

Avoid creating separate Account Types if the only difference is financial and rights/responsibilities are the same.

Every entity with a unique relationship (especially financial) should have its own account with an Account Type.

Avoid using “house” accounts for miscellaneous donations or transactions.

Consider synagogue by-laws and historical practices when defining Account Types.

A well-structured list of Account Types enables advanced filtering and data-mining capabilities.

Initial Setup and Ongoing Management

The initial list of Account Types is often generated during data import. It is recommended to review and refine this list before going live. Account Types can be added or edited later in My Lists, and accounts can be reclassified as needed.

Accessing and Managing Account Types

To manage Account Types:

1. Navigate to Admin Menu.
2. Select My Lists.
3. Choose Account Types.
   

From here:

1. View and edit existing Account Types.
2. Add new Account Types.
3. Merge Account Types from legacy databases.
4. Assign batch billing amounts if applicable.

Changes made here apply to all accounts assigned to the selected type. Always save changes to ensure updates are retained.

Updating Account Type for Individual Accounts

To change the Account Type for a specific account:

1. Navigate to Accounts > Accounts.
2. Search for then open the desired account.
3. Under Actions, choose Edit Account.
4. Select the new Account Type from the dropdown list at the top of the page.
   
5. Select Save Changes To Account.

The updated Account Type will display immediately after saving.

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