You’re in business to make money. Yes, you might have goals beyond profit and a love for the work you’re in. However, at the end of the day, if your business is bleeding money then you won’t get to reach any of those other goals. As a small business owner (especially if this is your first venture) it can be difficult to find the balance and get your finances just right. Of course, you need to be selling quality products or services which cost money- but you need to be earning enough so that you're making enough back. Too many small company owners get into business without understanding how to really operate their finances, here’s how you make sure you don’t make that mistake.

Record Everything

Even before the business begins, it’s a good idea to get as prepared for bookkeeping that’s as simple as possible. Your tax and other contributions all depend largely on the reliability of your bookkeeping, and once you earn over a certain amount you will have to pay VAT too. So, if you need to register for VAT it's vital that you do so, and ensure that all records are being carefully kept. If you have many expenses to deal with in business, then it’s a good idea to start off by setting your business as a separate entity from yourself as a person. Having personal and business finances and expenditures tied together can make it very difficult to organize when tax season comes around. Accurate accounting of all incoming and outgoing money is essential for managing a cash flow plan, too.

Learn to Borrow Correctly

Record-keeping also shows that you’re using the money you borrow from investors and banks properly, too. When it comes to borrowing, you need to develop a more disciplined approach both inside and outside of the business. After all, getting in debt personally will put the business in danger too, as it will count as an asset of yours. Make sure that you have a reliable budget and plan for paying off any loan before you accept it.

Make Sure Your Money is Going Where it’s Supposed To

That budget shouldn’t only be used for paying debts, but making sure that you’re accounting for where your money goes as best as possible. It’s easy to find yourself spending more than you expected when it comes to taking on new projects in the business or making an attempt to expand. If you spend money you shouldn’t have, however, it can get you in real trouble. Especially if you’re spending money that should be going to any employees you have. If you have a larger workforce, then it might be a good idea to use payroll consultants to ensure they’re taken care of as soon as possible. You don’t want your forgetfulness jeopardizing the whole business.