By Emma – Barleyfields Accountancy

Spring is in the air, and it’s not just your home that could use a good tidy-up your business finances might be ready for a little refresh too! 🌼

Whether you’re a sole trader, running a B&B, or working from home, taking a bit of time now to clear out the financial cobwebs can make the rest of the year feel a whole lot smoother.

Here are five simple ways to spring clean your books and boost your business confidence:

1. Chase Up Outstanding Invoices

We’ve all been there, a client’s payment slips through the net and suddenly it’s months overdue.

• Go through your aged receivables and give friendly reminders where needed

• Set up automatic invoice reminders in your accounting software if available

• Consider offering small incentives for early payment (or clearer late payment terms)

  
  

Cash flow is the lifeblood of your business so don’t let unpaid invoices pile up!

2. Review Subscriptions and Expenses

You’d be surprised how many businesses are still paying for tools, apps, or memberships they no longer use.

• Check your bank statements and software subscriptions

• Cancel anything that’s not adding value

• Make a note of what’s essential and what’s “nice to have” especially if things ever get tight

  
  

Trimming the fat now helps protect your profits later.

3. Revisit Your Budget (or Set One Up!)

A fresh tax year = the perfect time to refresh your financial plan.

• Are your income goals realistic for the year ahead?

• Do your expenses reflect any planned changes (staffing, upgrades, marketing)?

• Is your tax pot on track?

  
  

Even a basic monthly budget can help you make smarter, quicker decisions throughout the year.

4. Organise Digital Files & Receipts

Lost receipts = lost tax deductions.

• Get into the habit of snapping receipts with your phone and uploading them to your cloud accounting software

• Tidy up your desktop folders or email inbox if they’re overflowing with invoices

• Label everything clearly so your future self (or your accountant 😉) doesn’t have to dig

A tidy digital workspace = a tidy mind.

5. Check In With Your Accountant or Bookkeeper (That’s Me!)

Sometimes, a quick review with a professional eye can uncover opportunities or spot small issues before they become big ones.

• Are you using all your allowable expenses?

• Could you benefit from switching accounting methods or tools?

• Is your pricing still working for your goals?

A short chat can give you clarity, reassurance, and maybe even save you money.

Final Thought

A spring clean doesn’t need to be overwhelming – just a few small actions can make a big difference. Take an hour this week to tick off a couple of the points above, and you’ll already be on your way to a more confident and organised year ahead. Need a hand? Let’s make sure your business is in tip-top shape for 2025/26.

Emma - Barleyfields Accountancy