Keeping accurate and up to date account records are essential for any rural business. Agriculture is a complex and ever-changing industry, with numerous factors that can affect profitability and sustainability. By maintaining accurate financial records, you can gain valuable insights which can help you to make informed business decisions, and plan for the future. In this post we will now explore some of the benefits of keeping your accounts up to date.

5 reasons to keep your accounts up to date

We know the process of completing your accounts can seem like a long winded and comprehensive task but there are large benefits to spending the time on it and fully understanding your financial situation.

1.     Business planning

When you keep your financial accounts up to date, you have a better understanding of your financial situation. By monitoring your cash flow and expenses you can see exactly how much money you have coming in and going out. You can also identify any areas where you might be overspending or underperforming. This helps you to manage your finances more effectively, make informed business decisions, and plan long-term for the financial sustainability of your business.

2.     Peace of mind

Understanding your accounts can provide you with peace of mind as you have a clear understanding your business financial situation and it can remove some pressure knowing that your financial responsibilities are in hand. This can help reduce stress and anxiety and give you a greater sense of control over the financial future of your business.

3.     Avoid penalties and fees

One of the main reasons to keep your financial accounts up to date is to ensure you are paying the correct amount of tax and to help you avoid penalties and fines. Overdue payments, missed deadlines, and other financial errors can occur when you are not on top of your accounts. These can result in hefty penalties and fees which can quickly add up and add extra unnecessary financial strain to your business.

4.     Improve business credit score

Your business credit score is used to judge the financial position of your business and its level of financial risk. Keeping your financial accounts up to date is essential to maintain a good credit score. Negative cash flow, overdue payments and missed deadlines can adversely impact your business credit score and make it difficult to obtain credit in the future. On the other hand, timely payments and responsible financial management can help to improve your businesses credit score and open more financial opportunities.

5.   Help with Making Tax Digital

Following the introduction of Making Tax Digital, VAT registered businesses should keep records digitally and use software to submit their VAT returns. By already having your financial accounts up to date you can speed up the process of submitting your VAT returns and make it a much simpler process for you.

In conclusion, keeping your financial accounts up to date is crucial for financial management, making informed decisions, avoiding penalties and fees, improving your business credit score, speeding up VAT returns and peace of mind. Make it a priority to stay on top of your financial accounts and regularly review your finances to stay informed and financially healthy.