Tag: Bookkeeping
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Good Debt and Bad Debt: What Should You Pay Off Before the Financial Year Ends?
As the financial year draws to a close, business owners and individuals alike begin reviewing their financial standing to optimise tax benefits, improve cash flow, and plan for the future. One crucial aspect of this review is managing debt – specifically, deciding which debts to pay off and which ones to retain. Not all debt…
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The Importance of Bookkeeping: Why Every Business Needs It
Bookkeeping is often seen as a tedious task, but in reality, it is one of the most critical components of running a successful business. Whether you are a small business owner, a freelancer, or managing a growing enterprise, accurate bookkeeping provides financial clarity, ensures compliance, and helps drive informed decision-making. Without it, businesses risk financial…
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Understanding Fixed and Variable Costs: A Key to Better Financial Management
For any business, managing expenses effectively is essential to maintaining profitability and ensuring long-term sustainability. However, not all costs behave in the same way. Business owners must understand the difference between fixed costs and variable costs to make informed financial decisions, set competitive pricing, and control spending efficiently. What Are Fixed Costs? Fixed costs are…
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Profit vs. Cash Flow: Why They Are NOT the Same
Understanding the difference between profit and cash flow is crucial for business owners and individuals managing their finances. Many assume that if their business is profitable, they will always have money in the bank, but that’s not necessarily the case. A business can be profitable but still struggle with cash shortages, leading to financial instability.…
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Avoid These Accounting Red Flags: Protect Your Business from Costly Mistakes
Every business owner aims for financial stability, but accounting red flags can signal hidden issues that threaten profitability and compliance. Poor financial management can lead to cash flow struggles, tax penalties, and even legal risks. Recognising these warning signs early can help protect your business from costly mistakes. Below are key accounting red flags to…
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5 Signs It’s Time to Hire an Accountant
Running a business is an exciting journey filled with opportunities, but managing finances can quickly become overwhelming. Many business owners start out handling their own bookkeeping and taxes, but as operations grow, so do financial complexities. If you find yourself struggling to keep up with numbers, it may be time to hire an accountant. Here…
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10 Common GST Claim Mistakes Businesses Make in New Zealand
Claiming GST on business expenses can help reduce costs, but it’s important to know what you can and can’t claim. Many businesses unknowingly claim GST on ineligible expenses, which can lead to costly mistakes. Here are some common errors to avoid when filing your GST returns. 1. Purchases from Non-GST-Registered Suppliers If you buy goods…
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GST Mistakes That Could Cost Your Business
Goods and Services Tax (GST) compliance is a crucial aspect of running a business in New Zealand. While it may seem straightforward, mistakes in GST registration, record-keeping, tax filing, and calculations can lead to serious financial consequences, including penalties, interest charges, and even audits by Inland Revenue (IRD). Understanding and avoiding common GST mistakes can…
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Year-End Accounting: 3 Challenges Business Owners Face & How to Solve Them
As the financial year draws to a close, many business owners find themselves in a rush to organise their finances, prepare reports, and ensure everything is in order for tax season. While some might attempt to handle these tasks alone, year-end financial reporting is far more complex than simply checking the books. From compiling profit…
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Maximising Your Home Office Deductions: A Guide for Business Owners and Remote Workers
Working from home offers flexibility and convenience, but it also comes with financial benefits in the form of tax deductions. If you use a portion of your home exclusively for business purposes, you may be able to claim home office expenses, reducing your taxable income and improving your cash flow. This guide outlines the key…