How small businesses can watch their bottom line more closely by Christopher Freeburn Small business owners quickly learn about the necessity, particularly in this economy, of having a well thought-out business plan, doing the right amount of market research, and keeping excellent records. Good bookkeeping and adherence to proper account forms and standards often distinguish small businesses that succeed from those that fail. Part of the importance of maintaining good financial records...

Part 1: Checks By Christopher Freeburn Paying the bills doesn't make anyone's list of favorite things to do. But, like it or not, bills come due and must be paid. No one knows that better than small business owners, who face a myriad of bills every month, ranging from office supplies and equipment leases to office rent, insurance, and marketing services. Small business owners not only have to pay their bills, but do so in a way that lets them best manage their company's cash flow,...

Keeping your business and personal finances separate makes sense for both you and your company By Reed Richardson Many small business owners view their business as an extension of themselves, an outlet for their drive or creativity. Other small business owners are so busy building their businesses that they have little personal life outside it. In either case, most small business owners have sunk so much time, work, and investment into their businesses that the business's finances may become...