Chicago Organizations Finance Office
Email: cofo@northwestern.edu
Phone: (312) 503-1365
Fax: (312) 503-1950

The Chicago Organizations Finance Office (COFO) provides financial services for University-recognized student organizations.  Through COFO, student organizations may open and maintain fiduciary accounts, produce checks, and make charges or receive deposits through the University’s CUFS accounting system.

University-recognized student organizations enjoy several “umbrella” benefits such as tax-exempt status, certain insurance and legal services, sponsorship, etc.  However, for an organization to enjoy these benefits, all funds must be deposited in a COFO account.  Student organizations are prohibited from having any additional savings or checking accounts.  

COFO has compiled a handbook of policies and procedures and a Treasurer Manual. These guidelines are designed to comply with University regulations. COFO users must read both documents and abide by the policies and procedures contained within them. COFO Policy and Procedure Handbook (pdf)  COFO Treasurer Manual (pdf)

COFO cannot reimburse for the following :

****** Alcohol, or, alcohol related purchases.

****** Tobacco

****** Illinois Sales Tax

COFO forms (referred to in the handbook): Account Reconciliation Form (pdf)  COFO ledger (excel spreadsheet) New Account Request Form (word)

Each group president and treasurer must individually complete a signature card and the officer quiz. The officer quiz below can be printed and submitted to the COFO office in Abbott Hall. The signature cards can be filled out in the COFO office and must have original signatures. Both documents must be on file before officers are authorized to use their COFO account. Officer Quiz (pdf).

Student Organization Officers:

The COFO office will be open the following days or by appointment:

Monday, Tuesday, and Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
(Closed for Lunch 11.30 am - 12.30 pm)

Checks, vouchers and reimbursements can be mailed to the address below, dropped off at the COFO office or at the Abbott Hall mailroom.  The mailroom is open Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm [closed for lunch].  To get to the mailroom, make your first right once you have entered through the front (North) entrance.  Walk to the end of the hallway.  The mailroom is at the end of the hallway.  

When dropping off check requests, please staple back-up documentation behind the white copy of the voucher and include a self addressed envelope so we can mail the check.  Then, just put a note on the envelope indicating it is for COFO, 7th floor.  You may also drop off checks for deposit (remember to indicate your group's name and account number, as well as the total amount of deposit).  For instructions regarding cash deposits,  email or phone the COFO office. 

If you have any questions regarding COFO policies and procedures, or need assistance relating to your organization’s account, please contact the COFO office.

Chicago Organizations Finance Office

710 N. Lake Shore Drive, Abbott Hall, 7th floor, Chicago, Illinois, 60611
Mailbox located in the 1st floor mailroom