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copyright © 2003, by Karyn
Greenstreet. All rights reserved.
As the end of the year approaches, it’s important to both
close-out the old year properly as well as plan for the new year. I
recommend you do this process throughout the year so that there isn’t a
last-minute rush to complete your year-end closing tasks. Here are some
idea that you might want to add to your checklist:
Cleanup and Closing Tasks
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Enter all revenue and expenses into your recordkeeping
system.
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Send final invoices for current year.
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Reconcile your bank account records with bank
statements.
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Estimate your last tax payment for the current year
(many self-employed people make quarterly estimated tax payments…the final
payment is usually due on January 15)
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Mail holiday cards and gifts to clients/customers
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Make holiday offers to clients/customers
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Clean out old files/emails
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Create year-end accounting reports and compare to goals
for year
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Tally business-related mileage for year
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Tally expenses by vendor and prepare 1099’s if needed
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Contact your accountant and discuss year-end tax
planning
Planning Tasks for the New Year
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Write a list of goals
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Write a list of tasks that need to be accomplished in
order to make those goals
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Write a list of projects you’d like to start or
complete
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Create an updated marketing plan
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Create an updated budget
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List the topics you’d like to study, the classes you’d
like to take, or the books you’d like to read, to keep you up-to-date with
your industry and business skills
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Schedule upcoming classes you’ll teach and distribute
that Calendar of Events to clients and staff
Cleanup and planning tasks don’t just happen in December and
January. If you review these tasks quarterly, they won’t sneak up on you at
the end of the year.
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Karyn Greenstreet is a Self-Employment expert and small business coach. She
shares tips, techniques and strategies with self-employed people to boost
clarity and focus, create sustainable motivation, and increase sales and
profits.
Visit her website at
www.PassionForBusiness.com
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