Non-profit organisations (NPO) are focused on improving civil society and despite the fact that achieving profit does not represent their aim, non-profit organisations are becoming more like companies because they face strong competition in fundraising and the higher demands of their stakeholders for the increased effectiveness. New conceptual frameworks of NPO management emphasise performance management and financial management relying on accounting information. Therefore, understanding of accounting becomes crucial in achieving NPO success. However, as opposed to the companies that employ economists (who are familiar with accounting), NPOs usually lack in these experts and the questions regarding the understanding and the use of accounting information are being raised. Empirical research results indicate that conversance with accounting could be better in NPOs in Croatia. Hypotheses regarding the positive impact of conversance with accounting on decision-making and financial planning are supported.