Are you a business owner looking to make the switch to cash basis accounting? The transition can be daunting, but it’s worth it if you want to make the most of your profits. In this podcast I’ll take a look at how traditional accounting compares to cash basis accounting and show you how to calculate your tax profits under each system. Let’s get started!
The cash basis for tax seems like the right decision for a lot of small business owners. Moreover, it’s simple, straightforward, and easy to understand. You can use it without having to worry about all of the different rules and regulations that come with using other methods. However, there are some definite downsides to consider before you make your final decision.
The most important thing is to weigh up the pros and cons carefully so that you can make an informed choice about which method is best for your business. I hope this podcast has helped clear up some of the confusion around calculating profit. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
Using cash profits In order to make your business as successful as possible, it’s important to know where you’re at financially. One way to measure this is by you Calculating cash profits. This involves taking your revenue and subtracting your expenses. Furthermore, this gives you a clear picture of how much money is actually coming in and out of your company. While this can seem like a daunting task, it’s a crucial step in making informed decisions about the future of your business. By understanding your cash profits, you can better assess where you need to make changes and cut costs. And with that knowledge in hand, you can focus on growing and expanding your business!
Who is eligible to use the cash basis for tax and when it is not suitable
The cash basis for tax is a simplified way of accounting for your business income and expenses. It can be used by most businesses, but there are some cases where it is not suitable. I explore in this podcast post
- Firstly, who is eligible to use the cash basis for tax
- Secondly, when it is not appropriate.
Further details can be found here
Calculating tax profits – Traditional accounting versus cash basis
When it comes to calculating profits, there are two main methods, traditional or the cash basis. Each of these methods has its own benefits and drawbacks, which this table illustrates. The table below illustrates the 2 methods.
| Year 1 | Invoices issued | Invoices unpaid at start of the year | Invoices unpaid at end of the year | Cash received/paid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turnover | £40,000 | £0 | £3,000 | £37,000 |
| Materials | £10,000 | £0 | £2,000 | £8,000 |
| Other costs | £5,000 | £0 | £0 | £5,000 |
| Profits | £25,000 | £24,000 | ||
| Traditional accounting | Cash accounting |
| Year 2 | Invoices issued | Invoices unpaid at start of the year | Invoices unpaid at end of the year | Cash received/paid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turnover | £40,000 | £3,000 | £1,000 | £42,000 |
| Materials | £10,000 | £2,000 | £1,000 | £11,000 |
| Other costs | £5,000 | £0 | £0 | £5,000 |
| Profits | £25,000 | £26,000 | ||
| Traditional accounting | Cash accounting |
Conclusion
Are you ready to have an easier and more rewarding relationship with your numbers? My book, I Hate Numbers helps you get there.
This book will show you how to have a rewarding, productive relationship with numbers and your business. Furthermore, my book will help with that battle between the ears, that all business owners experience.
Grab your FREE cashflow guide Make your own Future Cash Story Plan with Numbers Know How. Get in touch with us to help make your life easier and stress-free. Contact us if you need help figuring out and sorting your numbers, creating your future financial story plans, your tax, payroll and other accounting and business matters.
Thanks for listening!