Cash Flow Basics for Small Businesses in BC and AB
Simple tips to help you stay ahead, even in slower months.
Running a small business in British Columbia or Alberta comes with unique rewards and unique challenges. Between seasonal slowdowns, rising costs, and the day-to-day demands of clients and projects, it can feel like you’re always catching up.
One of the most common stressors for business owners we work with? Cash flow.
Even profitable businesses can run into trouble if money isn’t flowing in and out smoothly. That’s why understanding cash flow and learning how to manage it is essential to building a business that not only survives, but thrives.
Whether you're just getting started or looking to tighten things up, this guide will walk you through the basics of cash flow and some practical steps you can take to stay ahead, even during slower seasons.
1. Know Your Incoming and Outgoing Cash
Start by getting a clear picture of:
- What’s coming in: regular payments, contracts, seasonal peaks
- What’s going out: rent, payroll, GST/PST, insurance, tools, materials, etc.
Tip: Make a simple list of your regular expenses and when they’re due. Even a spreadsheet or notebook can help you visualize where your cash is going.
How Cadence helps: We build clear, easy-to-understand reports so you always know what’s coming up and what’s coming in.
2. Don’t Wait to Invoice
One of the biggest cash flow mistakes we see is delaying invoices.
When you wait to send an invoice, you’re also waiting to get paid, and that delay adds up fast.
Tip: Create a habit of invoicing immediately after the work is complete or the product is delivered. Set a recurring calendar reminder if needed.
How Cadence helps: We can help you automate your invoicing and follow up on late payments, so you don’t have to chase down every dollar.
3. Plan for the Slow Seasons
Many businesses go through seasonal ups and downs.
Don’t wait for the slowdown to start planning. Instead, use your busy season to build a cushion for leaner months.
Tip: Set aside a percentage (even 5 to 10 percent) of your revenue during peak months into a savings account or tax account.
How Cadence helps: We can help forecast your cash flow and help you build seasonal plans so you’re not caught off guard when things quiet down.
4. Make Payroll and Taxes Predictable
Payroll and CRA payments can sneak up if you’re not careful, especially if you’re paying GST, PST, source deductions, or quarterly corporate taxes.
Tip: Use a separate account to set aside money for payroll and taxes as you go. That way it’s already there when it’s time to pay.
How Cadence helps: We track your payroll and tax obligations in real time and send reminders before anything is due so you’re never scrambling.
5. Use Tools That Make Cash Flow Easier
There’s no need for fancy tools to manage cash flow—just systems that work for you.
Tip: If you're already using QuickBooks Online, you're off to a great start. Use QuickBooks to track income and expenses and Google Sheets or excel to set up a simple weekly or monthly cash flow tracker. The key is consistency, not complexity.
How Cadence helps: We work with QuickBooks Online every day and can help you set up simple, effective cash flow tracking. Our team specializes in creating clear, easy-to-read reports with meaningful metrics—so you gain real insight into your business, not just numbers. We also offer ongoing support to help you get the most out of the systems you’re already using.
Final Thoughts: Cash Flow Gives You Breathing Room
Cash flow isn’t just about covering bills. It’s about building stability and peace of mind. When you know where your money’s going, you can plan ahead, pay yourself confidently, and make decisions from a place of calm rather than chaos.
At Cadence Bookkeeping Solutions, we help small business owners in BC and Alberta find that rhythm. Whether you’re in your first year or scaling up, we’ll support your business season by season with practical, personalized bookkeeping and planning.
Let’s make your cash flow feel manageable, together.
