Whether you are already underway with your business efforts, or you are just getting started, there are a few bookkeeping rules that should be implemented into your financial system:
• Rule #1 – Separate Personal and Business Finances:
Even though you are fronting the money to get the business off the ground, you need to be careful about the way the money flows through your company. Set up a separate checking account and use a dedicated credit card for your business expenses. Some contractors find it helpful to have multiple business accounts so that they can manage overhead expenses, vendor payments, employee payroll, and more.
• Rule #2 – Track All Expenses:
Whether you are buying a new computer system or a cheap notebook, you need to keep track of every expense related to running your business. These expenses can be used as tax deductions, but you must provide the documentation showing the transaction. Keep a digital record of transactions throughout the month, and hold onto the receipts and invoices that you receive.
• Rule #3 – Follow the Rules:
Understand the laws and restrictions that impact your business activities, and make sure that you stay in compliance with these rules. For example, your accountant will provide information about quarterly tax payments, tax break strategies, and more. You should tap into their expertise and make sure that you are keeping your nose clean with the IRS.
• Rule #4 – Keep a Backup of Your Financial Records:
You never know when a hard drive will crash or paperwork will be lost. Even if you are careful about keeping records, it is a good idea to store backup information about your financial transactions. If the main records are lost, then you always have a copy as a reference in case there are questions about your business activities.
• Rule #5 – Save for a Rainy Day:
Business might be good right now, but it doesn’t mean that you can spend the money on unnecessary expenses. There is a real temptation to splurge on a new computer or office furniture when the money hits the bank account. But, you need to be prepared for future expenses, such as tax payments, payroll, inventory restocking, and more. Also, remember that many companies go through slow seasons at times. Even though you are enjoying the benefits of the busy season right now, you need to set aside some running money to keep the company going when things slow down in the future.
• Rule #6 – Be Ready for Growth and New Opportunities:
Creating a good bookkeeping system will ensure that you have the resources and systems in place to support future growth. If the right opportunity comes along, then you want to be ready to act so that you can expand your business. But, the only way to grow is to ensure that you have control over the finances at your current levels of business.
• Rule #7 – Use a Cloud-Based Accounting Software:
Ditch the paper ledger and spreadsheets. Instead of spending your time on manual accounting and bookkeeping calculations, leverage the benefits of a cloud-based accounting software. Not only will your accountant have access to the data in their office, but you can view reports and information from any location in the world. All you need is a good internet connection to check in on the financial health of your company.
• Rule #8 – Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help:
You don’t need to re-invent the wheel by trying to figure it out from the ground up. Instead, there is a lot of benefit to talking to other people who have gone before you. Find a mentor in the industry to learn from their experiences. Also, be open to hiring contractors and outsourced services that can support your efforts.
One of the best things that you can do is to stay focused on your business growth and management, instead of wasting your time with busy work and numbers crunching. When you understand the value of your time, then you will see the benefit of bringing in an outsourced accounting and bookkeeping team to help.
These services will free up your day and reduce your stress because you don’t have to worry about tracking individual transactions or figuring out how to run payroll. Plus, the experienced advice is a great way to maximize your results and prepare for future growth. We want to help you implement the best financial systems, based on years of experience helping other people who experienced the same challenges as you. By specializing in small business accounting, we can optimize our services to help entrepreneurs and independent contractors.