Start of the tax year bookkeeping tips: 5 easy ways for Surrey small business owners to stay on track

April marks the start of a brand-new financial year. For small business owners in Surrey, it is the perfect time to reset, review, and put a few good habits in place that will save you stress later.

Here are 5 simple bookkeeping tips to start the tax year strong:

1.       Set up a new folder system

Start with the basics. Create a new digital folder labelled “2025/2026” and subfolders for:

• Receipts

• Invoices issued

• Invoices received

• Bank statements

This keeps things tidy and saves you hours when it’s time to do your tax return.

2. Review Your Accounting Software Setup

If you are using Xero, now’s the time to:

• Check your bank feeds are connected

• Reset tracking categories for the year ahead

A clean system will mean that there are fewer errors and clearer insights.

3. Schedule a monthly finance date

Block out 20–30 minutes each month to look at your numbers. Use this time to:

• Reconcile your bank

• Upload any missing receipts

• Run a Profit & Loss report

You will feel more in control and avoid that “I have no idea where the money’s gone” feeling.

4. Track every expense.  Yes, everyone

Even small ones. Especially the coffee shop ones! Logging everything builds a clear picture of your business spending and helps with future budgeting.  Use your software’s receipt capture feature or set up a shared email inbox just for receipts.

5. Set one financial goal for this quarter

Think about what you want to improve by the end of June:

• Is it more consistent cash flow?

• Paying yourself more regularly?

• Getting help with your books?

Set one simple goal and check in monthly to track progress.

Need Help Getting Started?

If you are feeling a bit overwhelmed with where to begin, do not worry, you are not alone. Book in a Power Hour with me and we will get your questions answered, and a clear plan in place: https://tidycal.com/3zjd9x1/power-hour