Keep documents together
Gather bank and credit card statements, loan statements, payroll reports, major purchase documents, and records of business income and expenses. Store them securely in clearly labeled folders.
Finish reconciliations
Reconcile all relevant accounts through year-end and investigate outstanding differences. Confirm that transfers and credit card payments were not incorrectly recorded as expenses.
Review key accounts
Look at accounts receivable, accounts payable, loans, fixed assets, owner transactions, and uncategorized items. Ask about unusual balances before reports are delivered.
Coordinate with your CPA
Your tax professional may need financial statements, payroll and contractor information, and supporting details for major transactions. Bookkeeping prepares the records; tax advice and return preparation are separate services.
Start early
A consistent monthly bookkeeping routine reduces last-minute work. When records are incomplete, identify missing documents and agree on a clean-up plan as soon as possible.
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This article is general educational information, not individualized accounting, financial, or tax advice.