A Small Business Owner’s Guide

At Linford Grey, we understand the unique challenges faced by small business owners. You wear many hats, juggling operations, marketing, and keeping your finances in order. 

Small Business Budgeting can often fall by the wayside, but it’s a crucial tool for ensuring your business thrives. 

Here, we offer our top tips specifically for small business owners to create a budget that empowers informed decisions and drives success.

Building Your Budget Foundation

1. Separate Business and Personal Finances: This is a cardinal rule! Opening a dedicated business bank account allows you to track income and expenses clearly. It also simplifies tax filing come year-end.
2. Gather Your Financial Records: Collect bank statements, receipts, and invoices from the past year. This provides a baseline for understanding your average income and expenses.
3. Categorise Expenses: Break down your expenses into fixed (rent, utilities) and variable (marketing, supplies). This helps identify areas for potential cost-cutting.

Crafting a Realistic Budget

1. Project Your Income: Analyse past sales trends and factor in seasonal fluctuations to estimate future income. Be conservative to avoid overspending.
2. List All Expenses: Include everything from rent and salaries to software subscriptions and office supplies. Don’t forget to account for taxes and potential one-off costs like equipment upgrades.
3. Prioritise Spending: Allocate funds first to essential expenses like rent and payroll. Then, factor in marketing, growth initiatives, and owner’s compensation.

Budgeting for Growth

1. Set Financial Goals: Where do you see your business in a year, three years, or five years? Having specific goals for sales and profitability will guide your budgeting decisions.
2. Allocate for Growth Initiatives: Budget for marketing campaigns, attending industry events, or investing in new technologies that will help you achieve your goals.
3. Factor in a Buffer: Unexpected expenses arise. Allocate a contingency fund within your budget to handle these situations without derailing your financial plan.

Maintaining Your Budget

1. Track Your Progress Regularly: Use accounting software or a simple spreadsheet to monitor your income and expenses compared to your budget.
2. Review and Adapt: Your business and financial landscape will evolve. Regularly review your budget, making adjustments as needed. Don’t be afraid to adjust expense allocations or revise income projections based on new information.
3. Seek Professional Help: If budgeting feels overwhelming, consider working with a professional accountant. They can offer valuable guidance and ensure your budget aligns with your overall business strategy.

By following these tips and establishing a solid budgeting process, you’ll gain control of your finances and make informed decisions that propel your small business towards long-term success. 

At Linford Grey, we’re here to support you on your financial journey. 

Contact us today to discuss your specific needs and how we can help your business flourish. You can book a free consultation via our calendar below.