How to Keep Track of Your Business Expenses

Running a creative business requires a lot of financial juggling, from purchasing supplies to paying for software subscriptions, client meals, and travel. To maintain your business's financial health and stay on top of your taxes, it's crucial to keep track of all your expenses. In this article, we'll share some useful tips to help you stay organized and in control of your creative business expenses.


Set Up a Separate Business Account

The first step in keeping track of your business expenses is to set up a separate bank account exclusively for your business transactions. This will ensure that your personal expenses are not mixed up with your business expenses, making it easier to track your income and expenses.


Using a Cloud-Based Accounting Software

Cloud-based accounting software such as QuickBooks or Xero can help you stay on top of your expenses. With these tools, you can easily connect your bank and credit card accounts, automatically import transactions, and categorize them accordingly. This will make it easier to keep track of all your expenses, including those that may have slipped your mind.


Keep Physical Receipts

Even with digital record-keeping, it's crucial to keep physical receipts for all your business expenses. Keep them organized in a safe place that is easily accessible. This will help you reconcile your digital records with your physical receipts, making it easier to spot any discrepancies.

Categorize Your Expenses

Categorizing your expenses is an essential step in managing your business finances. You can divide your expenses into different buckets such as office supplies, software subscriptions, travel, and meals. This will give you an insight into where your money is going and enable you to identify areas where you can cut costs.


Keep a Mileage Log

If you use your car for business purposes, keeping a mileage log is essential. You can deduct these miles on your taxes, which will help reduce your tax liability. Make sure to track all your business-related mileage, including trips to meetings, client visits, and other work-related destinations.


Use Credit Cards Wisely

Credit cards can be an excellent tool for keeping track of your expenses and earning rewards. However, it's essential to use them wisely to avoid accruing interest charges. Make sure to pay off your balance in full each month, and use your credit cards only for business-related expenses.


Running a creative business requires careful financial management to stay profitable and healthy. By following these tips, you can keep track of your expenses efficiently, reduce your tax liability, and gain a better understanding of your business's financial health. Remember to keep physical receipts, categorize your expenses, and use cloud-based accounting software to streamline your financial record-keeping. With these tools in hand, you can stay on top of your creative business expenses and focus on what you do best: creating.

EDW Bookkeeping

Providing specialized accounting and bookkeeping services to professional freelance workers and small business owners.

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