Year-End Bookkeeping: Your Checklist for a Smooth Tax Season
As the year winds down, now is the perfect time to organize your finances and get ahead of tax season. Here’s a fresh checklist to keep your bookkeeping stress-free and your business ready for the new year.
1. Reconcile All Financial Accounts
Double-check your financial records by comparing your bank and credit card statements with your bookkeeping software.
Ensure all transactions are logged correctly.
Resolve any discrepancies before year-end.
2. Organize Your Receipts
Avoid scrambling for receipts come tax time by organizing them now.
Collect all business expense receipts, both paper and digital.
Use a scanning app to digitize them for easy storage in a cloud-based folder.
3. Review Outstanding Invoices
Cash flow is king, especially as you close the year.
Identify unpaid invoices and send reminders to clients.
Address outstanding payments to maximize your year-end revenue.
4. Run Key Financial Reports
Get a comprehensive look at your business’s performance by generating critical reports:
Profit & Loss Statement: Assess profitability over the year.
Balance Sheet: Understand your assets and liabilities.
Cash Flow Statement: Evaluate liquidity to prepare for upcoming expenses.
5. Collect Tax Documents
Preparation now saves headaches later. Gather essential documents, such as:
W-2s for employees.
1099s for contractors.
Records of deductible expenses, such as mileage, utilities, and office supplies.
6. Set Goals for the New Year
Use insights from this year’s financials to plan for growth in 2025.
Set realistic financial goals.
Create a budget aligned with your objectives.
Identify opportunities for process improvements or automation.
Start the New Year Right
Completing these tasks now will simplify tax season and position your business for success in the coming year.
Need assistance?
Reach out today, and we’ll help ensure your books are ready to go!