Why small businesses can ill-afford to ignore their accounting responsibilities

While setting up a business is often the realisation of a dream, one aspect of the process remains essential throughout – the management of finances.

Yet despite this, many small businesses can fail to maintain financial records, which makes effective cash flow management incredibly difficult.

Ultimately, a lack of knowledge can stifle growth and make it very difficult for a business to succeed in the long term.

It therefore pays to give accounting processes plenty of thought, especially when it comes to maintaining a positive cash flow.

Cash flow is key

A poor cash flow can lead to insolvency, or any number of other financial concerns, as it often means that finances are not available to cover operational costs, salaries or creditors.

Good management is therefore vital as it allows a business owner to understand where money has been spent and where it will be needed in the future.

This reduces the risk of facing financial turmoil, although there are a range of alternative finance options that can assist businesses if required.

Understanding profit and loss areas is crucial to streamlining business practices too, especially if finances are being spent unnecessarily.

A business will always be measured on its success or failure by its accounts, and this usually requires an in-depth analysis of large levels of data.

This then allows for well thought-out decisions relating to recruitment, staff training, development, or even acquiring new office space.

Tackling payment problems

With the majority of small businesses facing late payment issues, keeping a watchful eye on the business accounts becomes imperative.

A failure to monitor unpaid invoices, and to chase them where necessary, can lead to cash flow issues, while maintaining accurate accounts also helps when it comes to meeting obligations for HMRC.

The exact methods that are used to maintain accounts are not important, but what does matter is that a business owner or finance team has a clear idea of what position a business finds itself in at any specific moment in time.

By Phil Smith

If you would like to have a free no obligation chat with one of our advisers please call us on 020 7186 1144.

• Share