Q4 ready? a five-point financial health check for smart business owners
As the final quarter of the year rolls around, it's easy to get swept up in seasonal sales, holiday prep, and end-of-year admin. But before the holiday season hits, take a step back: is your business financially ready for Q4?
A quick check-in now can help you avoid surprises later and set you up for a stress-free end to the year and a smooth start to the new one. Here are five simple things to review before the final sprint.
1. Are your books up to date?
It sounds obvious, but many business owners don’t realise their books are months behind until it’s too late. Make sure all your transactions are categorised, reconciled, and reviewed. This is the foundation for everything else - from tax prep to informed decision-making.
2. Do you have a handle on cash flow?
Q4 can be a cash-heavy season - or a cash-tight one, depending on your business. Check your cash flow forecast to ensure you’re prepared for larger expenses (like inventory or bonuses) and slower payment cycles. A good bookkeeper can help you model what’s coming.
3. Have you reviewed your budget vs actuals?
Now’s the time to compare your original budget with what’s actually happened. Are you overspending in any areas? Are there unused funds you could reinvest before year-end? Understanding the gaps helps you finish strong and plan better for next year.
4. Are your invoices and bills in order?
Late invoices mean late payments. Make sure you’ve sent out all outstanding invoices and followed up on any overdue ones. Also, check for any unpaid bills on your side to avoid penalties or supplier tension.
5. Are you ready for tax season (already)?
Yes, really. Q4 is the last chance to make strategic decisions before the books close for the year. Can you bring forward any expenses? Should you delay certain income? Your bookkeeper can work with your accountant to make sure you’re not leaving money on the table.
In short: A Q4 check-in doesn’t need to take hours — but it can save you weeks of stress.
At GoodBookkeeping.com, we help business owners breathe easy at year-end. From forecasting to reconciliations, we’ll help you get your financial ducks in a row before the holiday rush.
🎯 Want to know if your business is Q4 ready? Drop us a message or book a quick call - we’ll walk through the checklist together.
