Governmental external financial reporting serves two purposes. First, these reports outline accountability for public tax dollars and the services that are funded by these resources. Second, external reporting also provides governments with the opportunity to communicate with their constituents, highlighting the results of operations, the government's financial position, and most importantly, providing a vital framework for future decisions about programs and services. This program outlines the basic governmental reporting guidelines and offers suggestions for adding value to the external communications about the government's financial position.