Author: Complete Controller

There are more lucrative open doors via web-based networking media than you may understand. Social media can be advantageous. Numerous specialists state that online life is for interfacing with individuals and not for selling; however, eventually, you will need to use the associations you make. If you’ve developed enough trust with your devotees, they’ll be more disposed to look at your proposals and the connections you share.

There is no doubt that making money with social networks is one of the methods of generating online income that is currently booming. The importance that networks such as Facebook, Google Plus, Instagram, Pinterest, and X(Twitter) have acquired is brutal.

Millions of registered users share all types of content every second, which generates a lot of money in advertising. Everyone wants their share of the pie, and we are going to have less.

If you already have a blog and have shown your aptitude on a particular subject over some undefined time frame, you might be able to create a digital book, sound program, or video course and offer it to your crowd. Social media is the ideal spot to promote such an item.

Advertisers know the importance of social networks and are willing to pay you (sometimes even a lot) to promote your products or services with your contacts, followers, and friends. You can generally accomplish this through various platforms managed by third parties.

There are numerous open doors for you to share supported posts that advance the items and administrations of different organizations. It is a rapid method of winning cash from social media. 

In any case, if you don’t have a sizable after, this may not be a lot of a chance. It would help if you were careful with over-advancing items for the need of cash. In such a case that your supporters see that you’re continually tweeting around some object, not exclusively will they not click on the connections, they will likewise un-tail you.

The operation of the same cannot be more straightforward. Once registered, you’ll have to give the famous “Like” on Facebook or YouTube, “Follow” on X (Twitter), “Like” on Instagram stories, and so on.

Each time you do that, you will receive a reward in financial compensation or sometimes through a virtual currency you can exchange for real money. When you reach the minimum payment established for each page, you must withdraw it to your PayPal account or your usual bank.

These types of sites are free, and anyone can take advantage of them. Are you interested?

Create Your Profile on the Most Used Social Networks

If you want to make money with social networks, the first step is to have a profile on the most important ones. Remember that the advertisers (that is, the money) move wherever the most significant number of people interact.

In my opinion, social networks where you must have a profile created yes or yes are the following:

• Facebook: Although I wouldn’t say I like it too much, it is still the most important social network with the most traffic. Companies continue to spend millions of euros on advertising there.
• X (Twitter): This is my favorite. With an increase of 280 characters per tweet, it has become the best promotional tool for your blog, affiliate links, campaigns, etc. By the way, if you still do not follow me there, you can do it from here. 😛
• Instagram: Another thing that I do not use too much, but that has enormous potential. Its growth is exponential year after year, and you must be present to get a slice.
• YouTube: Although it is not known as a social network itself (but rather as a video platform), it is undoubtedly the best social promotion tool that exists.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Many people contemplate becoming investors at some point. There are so many areas in which a person can invest. The decision to invest should not be taken lightly. It should be well thought out and researched before investing your hard-earned money in anything.

In some cases, individuals hire a professional to help make sound investment choices. However, whether you hire a professional or not, you need to be knowledgeable about investing. Here are seven tips you should consider before investing.

Evaluate Your Current Financial Condition

Individuals should think clearly before they make any investing decisions. They ought to be aware of their current financial condition, like how much they earn at the moment and how much cash they can spare to invest so that it will not affect their everyday life and expenses.

In short, how much money can individuals easily set aside to acquire more in the long run? Evaluating their current financial condition can give them a clue as to where they are presently and where they want to be financially in the future.

Have a Financial Objective

To become a profitable investor, individuals should have a definite financial objective that they need to attain. When one does so, one will evaluate the best investment plans for achieving the objective with minimum danger.

It can be determined either by the individual or with the assistance of an independent financial consultant. There is no assurance that individuals will attain wealth through investment, but if they have savings and an essential investment plan, they can expand on the investment.

Balance Your Portfolio

Individuals should ensure that they do not invest all their money in investments dependent upon similar market conditions. Rather, they should obtain a combination of investments whose market conditions vary. By balancing their portfolios, individuals can limit the danger of loss.

Generally, bonds, stocks, and money are affected individually by a similar market condition. However, some elements may be the reason for the decline of one or the other. Individuals should ascertain that they invest in a balanced way.

Have an Emergency Investment

Individuals should never invest all their money in long-term investments that are not retrievable without penance over a significant period. In case of emergency, individuals will want money immediately. This can be any emergency, either negative or positive.

An adverse emergency is of a medical nature, such as illness or accident. A favorable emergency may come in the form of investment schemes that only benefit immediately. Individuals should always be ready to face any emergency.

Know How to Recognize a Scam

If it feels too good to be true, then it is. New investment schemes and ideas are being introduced consistently. If an investment offers an excellent return rate in a short amount of time utilizing conventional methods, then it is most likely a scam.

Understand the Investment

The details of a few investments or portfolios can deceive a few potential investors. Individuals should not disregard the details, as they are legally binding. A few investors make investments based on proposals by friends.

Individuals should ensure that they comprehend the investment project, as their friend will not be responsible for refunding the investment if they lose. Individuals should always look for wise financial suggestions.

Pay Off Credit Card Debt

Individuals cannot be successful in any investment unless they pay off their credit card debts. If individuals owe cash on a high-interest credit card, paying that off as soon as possible should be their priority. This immediate payoff will reduce interest and, therefore, reduce your credit card debt.

Conclusion

Investing can be a smart move for anyone with any income level. However, making investment decisions can be challenging and risky. To reduce these risks and minimize the challenge, you should use one or more of these seven tips.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Every entrepreneur knows that all businesses come with risks, and sometimes, these risks can become unconquerable challenges for business owners. Most of these problems arise because of the financial difficulties that companies face. According to the research and surveys, 60% of small businesses fail because of economic issues in the first five years. These issues can become the biggest hindrance for any business if not solved at the right time. 

What are the Top Financial Issues Small Businesses Have?

Running a small business is always challenging because the business owner is operating it on a small scale; however, the small financial challenges can amalgamate together and become large enough to cause severe problems in the future. Some of the top economic issues small businesses have:

•   Inconsistency of Cash Flow: The cash flow problems that might seem minor at the beginning tend to become a serious and significant issue sooner or later for the business. Even profitable businesses can fail due to inconsistent cash flow. According to the research and Guidant Financial, 33% of small business owners have declared that cash flow is the biggest challenge that they must face for their business. Another alarming situation is the information provided by the U.S. Bank, which says that 82% of small businesses fail and cannot stay in the market for a more extended period due to cash flow problems. Thus, it needs to be given proper attention, which most small businesses ignore in their initial years.
•   Excessive spending: Unnecessary or overspending can ruin the business in so many ways. Startups or new companies tend to overspend to look more successful and profitable than they are by having a fancy and oversized office, luxurious company vehicles, cellphones, top-of-the-line equipment or machinery, and many other unnecessary things items. It will eventually lead to an increase in the debts and cost of overheads for small businesses. 
•   Retaining Customers: Customer retention is another big challenge for small business owners. Returning the customers is necessary, or the business might even potentially fail because the customers can make or break the business. Studies show that increasing customer retention by 5% can help boost small business profits up to 95%; therefore, customer retention is much cheaper than customer acquisition. 
•   Raising capital: Raising capital can be highly challenging for small businesses, as can managing cash flow and retaining customers. Small businesses usually rely on personal savings for initial capital needs. Since many new startups begin with little money behind them, small firm owners typically have limited resources for funding their own businesses. Borrowing money from banks in the form of loans can result in high interest rates, which again can cause problems for them.

How to Overcome and Fix These Financial Challenges of Small Businesses?

Although small businesses are operating on a much smaller scale and in a less competitive environment, the above-mentioned financial challenges are enough to strangle the business to death. The following details will help to fix these issues:

•   Creating a cash flow budget: A cash flow forecast, or budget, will help business owners easily estimate what amount of money should be flowing in and out. It will also help business owners to know when to spend money on expenses and when to cut them.
•   Building a solid customer base: Leaving customers can be daunting because it can affect the business’s financial status. It is essential always to make them feel welcome, acknowledge their complaints, and overcome them to retain customers. Rewarding them for loyalty and offering discounts can be crucial as well. Moreover, using email marketing to stay in touch with them can help create satisfaction and a solid customer base.
• Finding investors: Angel investors are thought of as startup backers when raising capital becomes challenging. They are also known as private or seed investors. They are high-net-worth individuals who help startups or small businesses by financially backing them up in exchange for ownership equity in the company.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

In the labyrinthine world of business, where every decision can lead to prosperity or peril, there exist unsung heroes who guard the gates against fiscal doom. These vigilant protectors are none other than accountants, the stalwart defenders of the bottom line. Often perceived merely as number crunchers or tax preparers, accountants play a far more crucial role. They are the silent sentinels who not only ensure the financial health of a business but also safeguard it against the deceitful allure of scams.

The Shield Against Scams

Scams in the business world can range from fraudulent invoices and phishing emails to more sophisticated schemes like investment fraud. Accountants, with their keen eye for detail and deep understanding of financial transactions, act as the first line of defense. They scrutinize every transaction, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to ensure its legitimacy. By doing so, they protect businesses from falling prey to scams that could potentially bleed resources and tarnish reputations.

Guardians of Cash Flow

Cash flow is the lifeblood of any business. Accountants meticulously monitor cash flow, ensuring that the business operates smoothly without running into liquidity problems. This vigilance is crucial in detecting discrepancies that could indicate fraudulent activities. For instance, if an accountant notices irregularities in the cash flow patterns, it could be a sign of embezzlement or misappropriation of funds. By catching these early signs, accountants can save businesses from significant financial harm.

Compliance Crusaders

The ever-evolving landscape of financial regulations can be a minefield for businesses. Accountants stay abreast of these changes, ensuring that businesses comply with tax laws and financial reporting standards. This compliance is not just about adhering to laws; it’s about safeguarding the business from the penalties and legal repercussions that can arise from unintentional violations. In essence, accountants shield businesses from the potential financial scams that can emerge from within due to ignorance or oversight.

The Strategic Advisors

Beyond their role as financial guardians, accountants also serve as strategic advisors. They analyze financial data to identify trends, opportunities, and potential threats. This insight allows businesses to make informed decisions, pivot strategies, and avoid ventures that may seem lucrative but are fraught with risks, including scams.

Consider the example of a small business looking to invest in a new venture. An accountant can perform due diligence, assessing the financial health and legitimacy of the potential partner. This evaluation can uncover discrepancies or fraudulent activities, saving the business from a potentially disastrous investment.

Steps to Safeguard Your Business

Implement strong internal controls

Accountants can help design and implement robust internal controls to prevent fraud and errors. This includes segregation of duties, authorization requirements for transactions, and regular audits.

Educate your team 

Knowledge is power. Accountants can lead training sessions to educate employees about common scams and the importance of vigilance in detecting suspicious activities.

Regular financial reviews

Schedule regular financial reviews with your accountant. These reviews can uncover irregularities that may otherwise go unnoticed.

Invest in technology

Utilize accounting software with fraud detection capabilities. Accountants can recommend the best tools for your business’s size and needs.

Due diligence

Before entering into any significant financial commitments or partnerships, consult with your accountant. They can conduct thorough due diligence to ensure the legitimacy of the transaction.

Conclusion

Accountants are the unsung heroes of the business world. Their role goes beyond managing finances; they protect the integrity of the business, ensuring its longevity and success. In a world rife with scams, having a diligent accountant by your side is not just an asset; it’s a necessity. By following their advice and leveraging their expertise, businesses can navigate the treacherous waters of the corporate world with confidence, secure in the knowledge that they are protected against the specter of scams.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Accounting ethics is one of the most misunderstood topics in today’s business world. The field of ethics deals with whether or not accounting practices are acceptable. In addition to legality, the public sees a company’s accounting decisions as right or wrong, ethical or unethical.

One critical attribute of maintaining professionalism is adhering to a rigorous set of ethical accounting guidelines and practices. Maintaining professionalism and moral codes are the essential aspects that accounting professionals choose to abide by to enhance their profession, maintain public trust, and maintain honesty. The sad truth about this profession is that not every professional following this occupation is trustworthy. Unfortunately, people violate ethical codes of conduct and accounting standards daily. Some of the critical aspects of ethics in accounting need to be focused on to maintain professionalism.

Independence and Objectivity

Independence and objectivity are the two main aspects of the accounting profession, followed simultaneously in the organization. Trust is a critical component that helps make unbiased decisions and effective decisions beneficial to the client. The benefits of one financial product over others lead to biases that skew financial advice to the clients. Threats to independence are always a significant concern to maintain professionalism.

Integrity

Integrity is one of the fundamental elements of the accounting profession. Accountants must be honest and keep away all their interests aside.  Accounting professionals should build honest and professional relationships with their clients, avoiding all personal conflicts of interest. Accountants are not required to associate themselves with any misleading or false activities to ensure the highest level of integrity in accounting practices.

Confidentiality

A very critical issue that many accounting and financial organizations face. Disclosure of any financial information by an accounting professional without the company’s consent is a violation of accounting ethics – unless there is a legal and professional reason to do so. Accountants are required to keep all the company’s financial information private and confidential to maintain the code of conduct. Accountants deal with personal and confidential information throughout their daily routine. Accountants must maintain the confidentiality of the company’s accounts and employees’ data. Accountants should not trade accounting information with outsiders to ensure data safety.

Professional Competence

Accountants who make errors while maintaining the accounts manually or using old software are considered incompetent. The automated accounting software available today replaces manual work with more efficiency and effectiveness. Accountants are required to remain up to date with all accounting software for better results. Consulting with others to gain a particular knowledge increases peer bonding and helps accountants generate more respect for each other. Keeping yourself updated with all the international accounting standards and implementing them in your company to produce better results is a sign that you are competent.

Professional Behavior

Maintaining professional behavior is a fundamental aspect of every profession. Ethics require accounting professionals to maintain professional conduct to comply with the laws and regulations. Avoiding the organization and state laws can negatively affect the organization’s reputation. Accounting professionals are required to follow all accounting standards and local laws to prevent any monetary penalties. Accountants should keep their egos aside and consult their seniors or other peers regarding any unsure accounting transaction rather than recording it wrong.

Following unethical accounting practices may seem to be a good idea in the short term, helping you to increase the profits by unfair means, but, in the long term, it will have a negative impact. Unethical practices often lead to the loss of customers, poor employee retention, and loss of other b2b business relations, and might end up in legal proceedings. There is a 100% chance that investors and other stakeholders might lose their faith in the company and pull off their investments.

Bookkeepers and business owners must practice good accounting ethics with due diligence.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Although technology has helped a lot in controlling accidental accounting, many mistakes that accountants and business owners make are common. Some Mistakes and errors have minimal effect on the company’s finances and can be corrected and repented. However, there are also a lot of mistakes that are very hazardous and detrimental to the company and have a significant impact on the company’s financial health. In this article, we will discuss some common accounting errors and we will see how to prevent them.

Reconciling Balance Sheet

Timely reconciliations matter a lot in a business. Reconciliation of bank and credit card accounts is very vital to your business success. You should at least reconcile your balance sheet accounts monthly. There is a lot of software that is for timely reconciliations. Our counseling is a process in which you or your accountant can check the account balance listed in your books, whether it is accurate and correct or has any mistakes. Mistakes can lead to many financial problems in the future. Reconciliation helps identify the issues before they get out of hand or cause any massive pain for you. It will also help to know how much cash or credit you have right now in your account. It will also assure you that no fraudulent activity has been committed by any of your employees and no fraud is occurring in your business. Reconciliation of balance sheet accounts also helps to catch bank errors. If any customer payment is bounced or fails to post due to human or software errors, it will inform you in time. A few years ago, accounting software did not have a reconciliation feature, but nowadays, a lot of software, or you can say that most of the software, has a reconciliation feature available in the system. It will help make the balance sheet accounts and other processes easier and more efficient.

Look for Error in Data Entry

Human error is the most common cause of unnecessary money loss and monetary crisis. Because humans can make mistakes while entering data, it is evident that you cannot prevent all data entry errors or errors because it is not a machine that can identify problems and errors in a few seconds. In this case, you can put procedures in place to ensure that your entries are identified and corrected in the given time. The primary thing you must do is that do not overload your team. There is a limit to data entry work that a human can do in a day and be realistic because the employee is also human and can do specific job in a given time and be realistic with their goal and objectives.

Review the Work of Your Employees

Although you hire workers to review the work, your responsibility remains to quality checks and frequent reconciliations. It will ensure you that another set of eyes is on the books. If you are the owner or manager, you should learn how to review your employees’ work. As mentioned earlier, they are also humans and can make mistakes due to overloading the work or any other personal problem. So, ask questions from your team, be realistic with their goals, and avoid overloading them.

Do Some Helpful Practices

Sometimes, there is a lack of documentation procedures, which will cause your company considerable losses and valuable tax deductions. So, it is a must to document certain business expenses. Go paperless and use cloud-based storage, and there are diverse types of software, such as SharePoint and OneDrive. These will help you reduce your loss and prevent you from the headache of having paper documents because it is very hectic to take care of them and prevent them from copying and other issues. It is an error of the 21st century, so use software, and there is some expense report software such as Expensify. These are available in smartphone applications, and you can directly download them from the Play Store to make business expense reports. About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Navigating the complex world of taxes is crucial to running a successful small business. Proper tax filing ensures legal compliance and can significantly impact your company’s financial health. This article delves into the importance of proper tax filing for small businesses and introduces the top 5 tax preparation software that can make this daunting task much more manageable.

The Significance of Proper Tax Filing for Small Businesses

Legal compliance and avoidance of penalties

One of the most immediate reasons for proper tax filing is to adhere to the law. Failure to comply can result in hefty fines and penalties, which can be particularly damaging for small businesses operating on tight budgets.

Financial health and planning

Accurate tax filing provides a clear picture of a business’s financial situation, which is essential for effective planning and budgeting. It can also highlight potential tax deductions and credits that companies might not be aware of, ultimately saving money.

Investor and customer confidence

A history of accurate and timely tax filings can boost the confidence of investors and customers alike. It reflects a business’s commitment to transparency and financial responsibility.

Long-term growth and sustainability

Proper tax filing contributes to a business’s long-term growth and sustainability by ensuring that all financial liabilities are accounted for and managed efficiently. This strategic approach to finances can give small businesses a competitive edge.

Top 5 Tax Preparation Software for Small Businesses

Tax preparation software has become indispensable for small businesses seeking to streamline their tax filing process in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Here are the top 5 tax preparation software solutions, backed by industry-specific statistics and user reviews, that make them stand out.

Intuit TurboTax

TurboTax is one of the most popular tax preparation software options, known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive coverage of tax situations. According to a 2022 survey by the National Association of Tax Professionals, TurboTax was the preferred software for 67% of small business owners who choose to file their taxes electronically. Its ability to handle complex tax scenarios and provide real-time audit risk detection makes it a reliable choice for many.

H&R Block

H&R Block stands out for its hybrid approach, offering both online software and in-person support from tax professionals. A 2021 report highlighted that H&R Block helped small businesses claim over $3 billion in tax deductions and credits. Its dual approach caters to the varied needs of small business owners, providing the flexibility to switch between self-service and professional assistance.

QuickBooks Self-Employed

Designed specifically for freelancers, contractors, and sole proprietors, QuickBooks Self-Employed integrates tax preparation with everyday business accounting. A remarkable statistic is that users find an average of $4,340 in tax deductions annually using the software, as reported in 2020. Its seamless integration with TurboTax (also owned by Intuit) ensures a smooth transition from bookkeeping to tax filing.

TaxAct

TaxAct is praised for its affordability without compromising on features. It offers a range of products tailored to different business structures, including C corporations and S corporations. According to a consumer survey in 2022, 85% of TaxAct users reported satisfaction with the software’s easy navigation and comprehensive tax resources, making it a cost-effective solution for small businesses on a budget.

Xero

Though primarily accounting software, Xero offers robust tax features ideal for small—to medium-sized businesses. It stands out for its cloud-based platform, allowing real-time financial data access from anywhere. In 2021, Xero reported that 58% of its small business users experienced improved tax filing efficiency, highlighting its effectiveness in streamlining tax processes.

Conclusion

For small businesses, proper tax filing is not just about compliance; it’s a strategic element crucial for financial health and long-term growth. In today’s digital age, leveraging tax preparation software can significantly ease the tax filing process, saving time and money. The top 5 tax preparation software options mentioned here offer unique features and benefits that cater to the diverse needs of small businesses. By choosing the right software, small business owners can confidently navigate the complexities of tax filing and focus on what they do best—growing their businesses.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Accounting is a department of a business that plays a crucial part in growing a business. Still, it becomes a low priority for business people who are busy fulfilling responsibilities and performing other duties in some cases.

Many business owners think that accounting is complicated. While it might not be that difficult, if any mistake occurs in the accounting processes, it can directly affect the growth of your business.

Here are some expert tips that will allow you to handle business accounting easily.

Create cash flow statements: Make a cash flow statement when you do weekly and monthly finance reviews. Cash flow statements give a complete understanding of cash incoming and outgoing; this will clarify how money flows through your business. The more you know about the digits in front of you, the more you will manage your odds well. You can also automate the bookkeeping service, allowing you to visualize cash movement data.

Make a straightforward billing strategy: If you manage your finances well, you will ensure your business is financially healthy and know if too much cash is unpaid. A faulty billing process will ultimately result in a cash flow problem that can lead to the company’s failures. If your customer is late in making payments, send out subtle warnings because this is all you can do. If the issue repeats and prices are delayed with the same vendor, then try someone else. Billing must not be automatic; you should invoice clients on the specific date when the job is complete or when the client receives a product. Business is yours, and you will decide how to manage the billing cycle.

Give priority to receivables: When you get paid for the job you have done, it is the most exciting part. Whenever a customer pays the company, you apply that amount to the invoice and mark it as paid. Due to this issue, you may have a high number of debts if you waste hours just updating your listing stop; try to keep a record and track all your transactions. It would help if you made a strategy for accounting because it will help maximize your refund during taxation.

Keep business and personal accounts separate: It’s tough to do without stressing about individual transactions and finances if you are running a small business. About ¼ of small business owners claim they do not have separate financial accounts for business and personal use. On the other side, established and successful business owners say that they keep their finances separate. Making different accounts for personal and business transactions from the start will prevent you from confusion in the future, especially when your business starts to flourish. Some successful business owners do not make it necessary to have separate accounts for business. Caprio, the founder of Accelerated Growth Marketing, says, “I never felt that I needed different financial accounts, and I keep track of my credit card usage, so it’s easy for me to keep a single account for multiple purposes.”

Select suitable software for accounting: Selection of end accounting software is not an easy decision. If you make the right decision, it will bring you benefits. Choosing the wrong one may leave you helpless and at the mercy of your service provider. Businesses are using several different accounting programs and taking advantage of them by using them correctly. Small businesses mainly use QuickBooks. There are also more popular accounting software such as Paychex, Xero, and FreshBooks. Small businesses should think about user-friendliness and integration before choosing accounting software. Suitable software is something that can take your business to heights or bring it down. It depends upon which kind of software you select.

While you could consider many other things to improve the accounting functions of your company’s finance department, the five tips listed above are an excellent place to start.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Forensic accounting is the practice of combining traditional accounting and auditing practices with investigative procedures. This combination helps auditing firms or company management analyze a company’s or an individual’s finances. Most importantly, unlike other accounting practices, forensic accounting is a set methodology that the court of law accepts. Therefore, individuals who conduct forensic accounting understand that they can challenge the methodology in a court of law or challenge the company in a court of law for fraudulent activities if any are found.

Why is Forensic Accounting Used?

While traditional auditing practices happen for auditing financial accounts, forensic accounting comes into the picture when foul play is detected. Forensic accountants are trained professionals who know when to look beyond the finances and into the bigger picture. These individuals focus on the methods and practices to realistically analyze how the funds are being generated. This form of accounting happens in cases where financial embezzlement and fraud are involved.

Skills Need for Forensic Accounting

When it comes to forensic accounting, there are a couple of skills beyond studying and implementing a set of rules of practice. Forensic accountants are more like detectives. They need to be sharp and focused and question almost everything right in front of them. To give you a clearer picture, here are some essential forensic accounting skills.

Analytical Mindset

Forensic accountants must have an analytical mindset and analyze the situation carefully to conclude. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, developing analytical skills should be the primary consideration for forensic accountants since they play a significant role in solving mysteries. When reviewing documents, interviewing people, and going through accounts, a forensic accountant’s analytical skills will help them visualize the process and methods employed by a company to earn their income or get their funds.

Attention to Details

Like all detective jobs, forensic accountants need to be detail-oriented. When reviewing accounts and financial data, the devil is in the minutest details, and forensic accountants know that very well. Minor irregularities in the accounts can reveal a pattern of more extensive company fraudulent activities. This is why forensic accountants spend most of their time digging into the details of financial data. One discrepancy, and they know they have solved the case!

People Management & Interrogation Skills

A forensic accountant knows everyone is a suspect until proven innocent. It is where people management skills come into play. Forensic scientists are usually under much pressure from management and others, constantly trying to divert their focus from the case. It would be best if you never led them on. Instead, they should know how to manipulate people into falling into the trap. After you can identify several suspects, the next step is to interrogate them for the crime. Since forensic accountants are not legal entities, they know that they cannot pressure people. Instead, they play on their wits to talk people into admitting to their crimes. One piece of information at a time builds the larger picture of the case.

Problem-Solving Skills

Finally, forensic accountants are trained to develop problem-solving skills since that is their primary job description. Spotting fraud is like finding a needle in a haystack, which cannot happen if the forensic accountant has well-developed problem-solving skills. It’s a puzzle that needs to come together slowly, steadily, and one piece at a time.

To Conclude

Forensic accountants are trained professionals with the skills and mindset to solve cases. Their only weapon in their arsenal is their skill set. The cases these accountants must solve can range from corporate fraud to divorce settlements. Therefore, their primary concern is to focus on the issue and not mislead the people involved.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Commodities are:

• The raw materials that power the world
• Fueling our cars
• Feeding our populations
• Building our cities

From the grains that make up our bread to the gold in our jewelry and the oil that keeps our vehicles running, commodities are integral to our daily lives. But beyond their physical presence, commodities also play a crucial role in the global financial markets, acting as a barometer for the world economy and providing investment opportunities for individuals and institutions alike.

Understanding Commodities

At its core, a commodity is an essential good used in commerce that is interchangeable with other goods of the same type. Commodities are typically divided into two main types: hard and soft. Hard commodities are natural resources that are mined or extracted, such as gold, oil, and natural gas. Soft commodities, on the other hand, are agricultural products or livestock, such as corn, wheat, coffee, and pork.

The Role of Commodities in Financial Markets

Commodities play a critical role in the financial markets for several reasons. First, they are essential to the global economy; for instance, oil prices impact everything from transportation costs to production expenses, influencing overall inflation and economic health. Second, commodities can be a valuable diversification tool for investors. Since commodity prices often move in opposition to stocks, they can provide balance in an investment portfolio, potentially reducing risk and improving returns over time.

Investing in Commodities

There are several ways to invest in commodities. One can directly purchase physical commodities, like gold bars or silver coins. However, this approach requires storage and security considerations. Alternatively, investors can buy shares in commodity-producing companies, although this method also exposes them to company-specific risks.

For many, a more accessible way to invest in commodities is through financial instruments like futures contracts, which are agreements to buy or sell a commodity at a predetermined price at a specific time in the future. These instruments allow investors to speculate on price movements without physically holding the commodity. Additionally, Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) and mutual funds that focus on commodities provide a way to invest in a diversified pool of commodities or commodity-producing companies, reducing the risk of price volatility of individual commodities.

The Impact of Global Events on Commodities

Commodity prices are highly sensitive to changes in supply and demand, influenced by various factors such as weather events, geopolitical tensions, and economic developments. For example, a drought in a major wheat-producing region can reduce supply and push up prices, while a slowdown in economic growth can decrease oil demand, leading to lower prices.

Recent statistics highlight the volatility and susceptibility of commodity markets to external pressures. For instance, in 2020, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic caused oil prices to plummet, at one point reaching negative territory due to a collapse in demand and storage capacity concerns. Conversely, gold, considered a safe-haven asset, saw its price surge as investors sought stability amid market turmoil.

The Future of Commodities

The commodities market is set to continue evolving, driven by technological advancements, environmental concerns, and shifting consumer preferences. For example, the transition towards renewable energy is expected to decrease the demand for fossil fuels while increasing the need for rare earth metals and other commodities essential for producing wind turbines, solar panels, and electric vehicles.

Climate change and sustainability concerns also shape agricultural practices and commodity trading. The growing demand for ethically sourced and sustainably produced commodities is leading to the development of new standards and certifications, which in turn impact prices and market dynamics.

Summary

In conclusion, commodities are more than just physical goods; they are vital to the global economy and financial markets, providing investment opportunities, hedging against inflation, and diversification. As the world changes, the commodities market will undoubtedly adapt, offering new challenges and opportunities for investors. Keeping an eye on global trends and understanding the fundamental forces that drive commodity prices can help navigate this dynamic and essential sector of the financial world.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.