Frequently Asked Questions

 Plan, Do and Review

How do I manage the change to 15% GST (NZ)?

All versions earlier than Cashmanager RURAL 4.2 are not compliant for 15% GST. Version 4.2 includes significant changes to meet IRD requirements for the transition and for ongoing use. For Invoice basis users the transition is relatively simple in that if the invoice is dated before 1st October it will be at 12.5% and if after, it will be at 15% Payments basis users have a bit more of a challenge. The GST rate is determined by the Payment date and all payments after 1st October will be at 15%. To manage the difference between 12.5% and 15% for transactions Invoiced before 1st October a GST adjustment schedule must be prepared. Cashmanager RURAL 4.2 includes tools to assist with the transition and to produce reports that meet the new GST return requirements.

How does the 28 day trial work?

You have a full working program and can do real work which you can carry on with when you purchase.

Will the program suit my type of farm?

Cashmanager RURAL comes with sample codes which completely set up the program for a wide range of farms. You can modify any set up option at any time, unlike most accounting programs where the initial setup is crucial.

What is Cashmanager RURAL ONLINE?

It is the new online version. It has many of the same features but differs in that your data is stored on a central server and can be accessed from anywhere. For more information click on Cashmanager RURAL ONLINE

What is the difference between the older CMR ONLINE and the new Cashmanager RURAL ONLINE?

The earlier version was slow to operate on poor broadband. The new version is very fast (faster than the old desktop) and tolerant of brief outages. Printing and bank statement downloads are as simple as they are on the desktop. Pricing is also much sharper!

How secure is the data?

Your data is protected by encrypted passwords as it travels the internet and our servers are specially designed to ensure your data is stored to corporate standards.

What type of broadband connection do I need?

Any 'standard' broadband service is suitable. We recomend a minimum of 500kbs download and 256kbs upload.

Can I transfer my desktop Cashmanager RURAL data?

Yes, you can import your data straight into Cashmanager RURAL ONLINE. You create and pay for a new database on the server and then when you first run Cashmanager RURAL ONLINE you will be able to import your data to the online server.

What is the difference between Cashmanager RURAL ONLINE and Cashmanager CRT ONLINE?

They are very similar but only Cashmanager CRT ONLINE has service which locates your CRT monthly statement, pre-codes the invoices and imports into your cashbook with a click of your mouse. Cashmanager CRT ONLINE offers CRT members a rebate on the monthly lease.

How do I control who can see and view my data?

The database owner controls who can see or alter the data by giving each person permissions. It might be the 'owner' only gives the Bank Manager 'budget view only' permission for a day or two. The accountant may only get 'Transaction only' rights until they have processed your end of year accounts. Others might get full rights to parts of or the entire program.
Granting rights is under the 'Owners' control.

How will my accountant get a copy of my data?

That's the beauty of this system. You simply give them the right to access your data when they need it. And that has major benefits. Firstly there is no need to email them a backup. Secondly, if they need to change the code on a transaction, your data will be updated.

What's the advantage compared to emailing backups to and fro?

  • Emailing data to and fro is hard and very risky. Most users find they have to re-enter data because it is accidentally overwritten.

  • Cashmanager RURAL ONLINE controls access rights. You know your valuable budget or nicely reconciled transactions cannot be accidentally altered.

  • You are not dependant on a third party sending you the data, nor are you under pressure to return it. You can work when you want to.

  • Conference calls, where everyone is working on the same data and seeing changes come through instantly, allows quick decision making.

     

How long will it take to set up the program?

Within a couple of hours most people can enter a month's worth of transactions and prepare a GST return. This is because it comes pre-set with sample codes for your style of farm. There is no need to spend hours setting up before you start as all codes can be changed and re-arranged at any time.

How much in the way of computer skills do I need?

Most Cashmanager RURAL users have minimal computing or accounting skills when they start, but because of the brilliant design and great backup and support almost all get started with a minimum of fuss. It's a testament to the software that despite unlimited free support, your calls will be answered promptly.

How safe is downloading from internet banking?

Lots of farmers use this because it saves so much effort and greatly increases accuracy, especially with the Autocoding. Provided you have up to date virus software, install updates and follow your banks security instructions you should be OK.

Will it download from my bank?

Almost certainly it will - it uses formats common to nearly all banks. Even better, it will download from farm merchandise stores like RD1, PGG Wrightson & Farmlands.

Can I put the program on more than one computer?

The Annual Database License allows the software to be installed on more than one computer, allowing you to see your farm information on the additional computers (provided you backup and restore from each computer). To run more than one farm database requires payment of additional fees. Cashmanager RURAL ONLINE is strongly recommended as the data is stored centrally and regardless of the computer you are using, you will be working on current data.

My farm is run as two separate units under the one bank account - can we report on each separately.

Cashmanager RURAL has a special coding system for enterprise analysis that will provide this capability.

What are the key differences to an accounting program like MYOB?

The main difference is that it is designed exclusively for farms and includes features farmers must have like production analysis and livestock inventory. The planning tools are excellent. Typical accounting programs offer nothing similar.

Is access to support important?

Being able to phone as often as you need is really useful. It's a testimony to the user friendly nature of the program that we don't get overwhelmed with calls - after all we have thousands of farmers using Cashmanager RURAL.

Can I send reports to my bank manager?

Most rural bank managers have Cashmanager RURAL so an option is to email them a complete backup. Alternatively you can email selected reports as a PDF or as an excel spreadsheet.

How can I reduce finance costs with my bank?

Easier than you expect! The key is to show them you are in control and able to present them with good information. The useful thing about good information is that you can easily share it with another financier and get a good comparison.

Note: To see the technical support Frequently Asked Questions - Log in and go to the Online Tips in the Users menu