How to Prepare for a Financial Audit

The word “audit” might send a chill down your spine, but it doesn’t have to. With the right preparation and mindset, a financial audit can actually be a great opportunity to tidy up your records and gain peace of mind.   What is a Financial Audit? An audit is a formal review of your financial […]

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Understanding GST: What Small Businesses Need to Know

GST (Goods and Services Tax) is a fact of life for most New Zealand businesses, but it doesn’t have to be confusing. Here’s a plain-English guide to understanding GST and staying compliant.   What is GST? GST is a 15% tax added to most goods and services sold in New Zealand. If your business earns […]

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Top 5 Tax Deductions Small Businesses Often Overlook

When it comes to saving money on taxes, every dollar counts. But many small business owners miss out on valuable deductions simply because they don’t know what they’re entitled to. Here are five commonly overlooked business expenses that could reduce your tax bill.   Home Office Expenses If you run your business from home—even just […]

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The Importance of Regular Bank Reconciliation

Bank reconciliation might sound like an accounting buzzword, but it’s actually one of the simplest and most powerful tools for keeping your business finances in check.   What Is Bank Reconciliation? It’s the process of matching your business’s financial records with your bank statement. In other words, it’s double-checking that what you think you’ve earned […]

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How to Choose the Right Accounting Software for Your Business

Choosing the right accounting software can make a world of difference for your business. The right tool helps you stay organised, save time, and reduce the risk of errors, but with so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.   Start With Your Business Needs Before diving into features, think about what your business […]

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Understanding the Difference Between Cash and Accrual Accounting

When it comes to managing your business finances, understanding how income and expenses are recorded is essential. Two of the most common accounting methods are cash accounting and accrual accounting, and choosing the right one can impact everything from cash flow to tax reporting.   Cash Accounting This method is straightforward: you record income when […]

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What to Do If You Get Audited: A Small Business Owner’s Guide

Getting audited sounds intimidating, but if you’re prepared, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s what small business owners should know about audits and how to handle them with confidence.   1. Why Do Businesses Get Audited? Audits can happen for various reasons, such as random selection, inconsistencies in tax filings, or claiming unusually high […]

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Common Accounting Mistakes Small Business Owners Make (and how to avoid them)

Managing finances can be overwhelming, and many small business owners make simple accounting mistakes without realising it. These errors can lead to cash flow issues, tax problems, and unnecessary stress. Here are some of the most common accounting mistakes and how to avoid them. Mixing Personal and Business Finances A common mistake is using the […]

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How to Set Up a Basic Budget for Your Small Business

Creating a budget for your small business is essential to keep track of spending, manage cash flow, and plan for growth. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to setting up a budget that’s easy to understand and maintain. Estimate Monthly Revenue Start by calculating your average monthly income based on past months. This gives you a […]

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