Spring’s here. Time to chuck out the junk, clean the van, and give your accounts a once-over too. Because let’s face it—ignoring your books is like ignoring a leaky roof. Eventually, it’s going to cause a mess.
If your finances have been on the back burner, now’s the perfect time to get things sorted. Here are 5 common accounting challenges—and how to smash through them, Buzz-style.
1. Your Cash Flow’s All Over the Place
Cash in, cash out—if it’s all a bit guesswork, it’s time for a reset. Cash flow is the pulse of your business. Without it? You’re flying blind.
🔧 Quick Fixes:
- Scan Your Bank Statements: Spot trends, gaps, and money leaks.
- Ditch Unused Subscriptions: No point paying for stuff you’re not using.
- Budget for Big Buys: Got tools to replace? Plan now, not when it’s urgent.
💡 Buzz Tip: Offer quick-pay discounts to get invoices settled faster. Money in = less stress.
2. Receipts? What Receipts?
If your receipts are crumpled in a coffee-stained pile on the dashboard… yeah, we’ve all been there. But come tax time, you’ll want those bad boys in order.
🔧 Quick Fixes:
- Snap & Store: Use your phone to take pics—there are apps that’ll auto-sort for you.
- Paper Lover? Fine. Use a folder. One section per month. Keep it simple.
- Do a Weekly 10-Min Tidy: Better than a mad panic in January.
💡 Buzz Tip: Think of receipts like tools—useless if you can’t find ‘em.
3. Clients Owe You Money
Done the job, sent the invoice… and nothing. Sound familiar? Chasing payments isn’t fun, but neither is being out of pocket.
🔧 Quick Fixes:
- Send Reminders Without Feeling Rude: A short, friendly message does the trick.
- Spell Out Payment Terms: Make it clear upfront—due dates, how to pay, the lot.
- Pick a Day: Check your outstanding invoices once a month. Get a brew, get it done.
💡 Buzz Tip: Offer more ways to pay. Bank transfer, card, online—don’t make it hard.
4. No System = No Clue
If your accounts are a “when I remember” job, it’s time to set some structure. Little and often wins the race.
🔧 Quick Fixes:
- Weekly Check-ins: Log income and expenses—don’t let them pile up.
- Monthly Recons: Match your records with the bank. Find errors before they bite.
- Cash Flow Check: Quick scan of what’s coming and going helps you stay in control.
💡 Buzz Tip: Set reminders. Block out a 30-min slot each week. Non-negotiable.
5. You’re Not Planning Ahead
Winging it might work for a bit, but it’s no way to run your business long term. A bit of planning now saves a load of stress later.
🔧 Quick Fixes:
- Forecast Income: Look at busy/quiet spells from last year.
- List Big Costs: Insurance, kit, vehicle repairs—get them on the radar.
- Save a Bit: Whether it’s for tax, new gear, or a rainy day, it all adds up.
💡 Buzz Tip: Don’t wait till you’re skint to plan—get ahead while you can.
Let Buzz Help You Start Fresh
A spring clean isn’t just for your garage. Sorting your accounts now means less stress, more time, and more control.
At Buzz Accounting, we make it dead easy to get your books in order—and keep them that way. No jargon, no faff, just proper support for business owners who’ve got better things to do.
👉 Want a fresh start? Drop us a message today—we’ll help you clean up your finances and keep things running smooth all year round.