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Accounting Mistakes That Could Harm Your Small Business

May 1, 2023 / / 0 Comments

While large businesses may have the resources to bounce back from financial blunders, small businesses, on the other hand, may not have that cushion. For entrepreneurs and small businesses looking to keep their cash flow steady, there are some steps they can’t just skip trying to make the leap. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common mistakes that can sink and destroy small businesses.

No Rainy-Day Fund

Failing to save for emergencies is one of the biggest financial mistakes that even the savviest business owners go wrong with their small business financial management. A rule of thumb is to have at least six months of running business expense as your rainy-day fund to avoid any financial shortcomings. The last COVID-19 pandemic did a number on many high-profile companies in the US, and this is a case in point on the importance of saving for emergencies and planning for the unexpected.

Mismanaged Taxes

Going for DIY taxes software to quickly cross off your to-do list can simply lead to costly tax issues. Managing your business taxes is an entirely different ball game than managing your personal ones. You need an expert well-versed in local and business laws to help you with your taxes. As a small business owner, you already have a lot on your plate, which is why hiring a tax expert can be a smart investment for your small business.

Being Oblivious to Fraud

Small business owners often wear many different hats and accounting might be one of their skills. While it’s a good thing that you’re able to handle your small business finances on your own, there is a risk of failing to catch the signs of fraud. Specialized accountants like forensic accountants have keen minds and it’s their job to ensure your business activities are legitimate and everything is in order. In cases of fraud detection, we believe that one can never be too careful. Hiring an accountant will minimize the risk for you.

Related: Learn more about how forensic accounting can save your business from fraud here.

Starting a Business without the Backup of an Accountant

Having your business see the light of the day is a big step. However, 20% of small businesses fail in their first year and being one of them is the last thing you want. That shows the importance of having a good business plan and the backup of an experienced accountant. No business can survive without a solid long-term plan and a vision to execute it.

An accountant can assist you with market forecasting and analyze the current situation to devise a plan for your business’s future. A seasoned accountant can help you put your business plan together and be your key success as you move forward.

Related: Learn more about why it’s essential to hire an accountant when starting a business here.

Let MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC Help You Reach Business Milestones

Small businesses face unique financial challenges that require careful attention and planning. MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC is here to ensure that you are well-supported and guided at each stage of the creation and development of your small business. Check our website to learn more about our services or simply give us a call at (956) 997-0067 for further assistance.

Reasons You Need to Hire a Tax Expert

April 3, 2023 / / 0 Comments

Often, people hesitate to hire a professional tax expert because they can be quite expensive. But one must understand that hiring a tax professional can be a big help for those dealing with more complicated situations. In addition, if you’re self-employed, a professional tax expert can take the stress out of doing your taxes. Are you wondering whether you should tackle filing yourself or hire a tax preparer to do it for you? To help you, we have listed some of the pros that you can consider to make the right choice.

Reasons Why You Need to Hire a Tax Expert

  1. Itemizing your taxes

Itemizing your taxes can be a bit difficult and time-consuming to do correctly. Though it’s a common practice, it can still make your tax returns more complicated. However, a professional tax preparer will help ensure you don’t make mistakes and ensure your return is submitted on time. They can also help you figure out how to optimize your itemizing situation.

Related: “Common Itemized Deductions”

  1. Tax knowledge and advice

A certified and professional tax expert may have much more specialized knowledge of tax laws and regulations. They can provide you with professional advice to make sure your tax return is free of errors and accurate, reducing the likelihood of mistakes and protecting you from additional penalties or audits.

Situations That Might Require You to Hire a Tax Professional

  • Dealing with multiple sources of income

When you’re juggling different kinds of tax forms, it can get complicated quickly. However, a tax expert can help you handle both W2s and 1099s in a much more professional manner.

  • Planning to adopt a child

A professional tax expert will assist you incollecting the proper documentation and can also help you qualify for a tax credit toward adoption-related expenses per the IRS.

  • Help you resolve a previous tax return mistake:

If you’ve made tax mistakes in the past and are not sure how to overcome these errors, a professional can help you avoid these mistakes in the future and file an amended return.

Related: “Why Is It Essential to Hire an Accountant When Starting a Business?”

  • Assist you in caring for your elderly parents.

If you’re providing financial support for an elderly parent, a professional tax expert can help you claim them as a dependent or qualify for tax breaks.

Conclusion

We hope the above guide helps you make the right decision about whether you need to hire a tax professional or not. Moreover, if you’re looking for professional help, MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC, offers financial consulting, professional accounting, bookkeeping, tax preparation services, and more in Mission, TX. Visit our website to learn more about our services, or call us at (956) 997-0067 for further assistance.

Best Bookkeeping and Accounting Practices for the Success of Your Business

March 9, 2023 / / 0 Comments

Managing your personal finances is one of the primary priorities in one’s life, and a majority of people can manage this on their own. But when it comes to bookkeeping and accounting for business finances, it is entirely different. There is a lot more to consider, and with employees and customers counting on you, the stakes are much higher. The following are some of the best bookkeeping and accounting practices you can adopt for the success of your business.

1. Set internal control over finances.

Setting internal control over the business finances can reduce the risk of fraud. Your bookkeeping policies should be diversified and not solely dependent on one person. Establish dual control of processes that include purchasing or receiving payment.

In simpler words, the person who opens the mail for bills should be someone other than the one who writes the check. And the person who writes the check should not be the one to authorize it. The list of payments should be forwarded to the accountant, so the entire process is free of fraud.

Related: “What Can a Forensic Accountant Help You With?”

2. Determine the accounting method that suits your business needs.

There are two standard accounting methods widely practiced in business management—cash basis accounting and accrual accounting.

Cash basis accounting is one of the simplest methods and approaches for accounting and bookkeeping. Cash basis accounting records transactions at the time cash actually changes hands and is usually only recommended for companies that do business strictly in cash payments.

The accrual method uses the matching principle to record revenues and expenses in the time frame they occur, regardless of when payments are made or received. The accrual method is usually the best choice for any business which will be invoicing clients.

3. Keep your personal and business finances separate.

Keeping your personal and business finances separate is crucial to ensure clarity in the management of accounts and finances. Ensure that you and your employees are not using the business funds for personal purchases or expenses.

Have separate bank accounts and credit cards for your business expenses. This will immensely help you when you are filing for taxes and ensure you keep the records. You don’t want to face legal action because your business and personal finances were intermingled.

Related: “Why Is It Essential to Hire an Accountant When Starting a Business?”

Conclusion

Whether you run a startup or manage a large corporation, you can benefit significantly from the services of a professional bookkeeper in meeting your financial goals. MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC, offers financial consulting, professional accounting, bookkeeping, tax preparation services, and more in Mission, TX. Visit our website to learn more about our services or call us at (956) 997-0067 for further assistance.    

Importance of Hiring a Bookkeeper For Your Business in 2023

January 13, 2023 / / 0 Comments

If you are a business owner, you understand how important it is to have your finances and books in order. With this rapid growth of innovative startups in the business sector, hiring a bookkeeper gives you the freedom to focus on the company’s well-being than tedious bookkeeping. Following are some of the reasons you should consider hiring a professional bookkeeper for your business in 2023.

1. Your books will always be up to date.

One of the most critical components of running a successful business is cash flow. If your cash flow is being accounted for and tracked in a place, you will have a better understanding of where the finances are flowing. You can invest and delegate your money accordingly for maximum returns. A bookkeeper plays a more hands-on role in keeping your cash flow under control. Financial transparency allows you to be proactive about growing your business and ultimately lets you plan and forecast without risky guesswork.

2. Hiring a bookkeeper will save your time.

A bookkeeper will take all the technical aspects of managing your books off your hands. This will save you immense time. Rather than wasting your precious time on maintaining your cash flow and books, you can focus on the development and wellness of your business. If you are not disturbed by the reconciling financial records, you will be more focused on sales, marketing, and team building for the best outcomes for the growth of your company. Hiring a bookkeeper will save your time.

3. A bookkeeper will eliminate every margin of error from financial records.

A bookkeeper is responsible for managing, sorting, and keeping track of your business financial transactions. They have access to your entire cash flow and control it depending on the budget set for the business growth and development. Bookkeepers are experts that will identify and eliminate every margin of error from financial records to avoid any unnecessary financial leaks.

Related: “Bookkeeper vs. Accountant – Which Is Better?”

Conclusion

Whether you are an individual with a job or a business owner, you can benefit greatly from the services of a professional bookkeeper in meeting your financial goals. MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC offers financial consulting, professional accounting, bookkeeping, tax preparation services, and more in Mission, TX. Visit our website to learn more about our services or simply give us a call at (956) 997-0067 for further assistance.     

How Outsourcing Allows You to Be Free of Business Accounting

December 16, 2022 / / 0 Comments

We understand that accounting isn’t for everyone and how problematic it can be to keep track of your business finances. Are you a business owner struggling to prepare to close the books for 2022? Guess what! You’ve landed on the right article. We will help you understand how an outsourced accounting services provider will help you with your accounting tasks and budgeting for next year’s finances. Without further ado, let us take a closer look at this in-depth blog.

It gives owners complete peace of mind.

Business owners often struggle with managing finances as well as numerous accounting tasks. Though they might have things under control, there still might be times where they need to focus elsewhere in order to keep the business operating and growing. So, if you’re a business owner having a hard time focusing on growing your business, it’s time to consider finding someone who can handle the accounting of your company more professionally. You can consider hiring an outsourced service provider. They will help you manage the following:

  • Control the day-to-day transaction coding.
  • Accounts receivable
  • Accounts payable
  • Payroll
  • Management of financial reporting
  • Many other services as needed by the company

Related: “Why Is It Essential to Hire an Accountant When Starting a Business?”

It will help you focus on growth with technology.

As a business owner, if you want to have access to top-tier technology that will make running your business even easier, teaming up with an outsourced accountant will be the best choice you can make. They will introduce and connect you to new technology that will help you handle your finances, marketing, sales, supply chain, customer service, and other business functions even better. By opting for more efficient programs, processes, and procedures, your business can have the tools that it needs to grow without the need to hire more people to help in the office.

Related: “How Accountants Can Help You Make the Leap from Good to Great”

Wrap Up

If you’re looking for professional accounting and bookkeeping services, you can rely on Maria Ruiz, CPA, PLLC. We offer professional accounting and bookkeeping services and support from a team of knowledgeable experts in Mission, TX. Check our website to learn more about our services, or simply give us a call at (956) 997-0067 for further assistance.

Bookkeeper vs. Accountant – Which Is Better?

September 23, 2022 / / 0 Comments

Bookkeepers and accountants both support and manage businesses at different stages of the financial cycle. Therefore, it gets hard to distinguish between each process. Do you want to learn about the difference between bookkeeping and accounting? To help you get a better understanding, we have compiled an in-depth analysis that will explain the functional differences between accounting and bookkeeping. Scroll down to read more!

The Key Differences between Accounting and Bookkeeping

Bookkeeping Tasks 

  1. It helps you record and categorize your business’s daily payments and expenses. 
  2. It helps you send customer invoices.
  3. It also helps you to record all the payments received throughout the month and year.
  4. It even helps you conduct bank reconciliation every month.
  5. It helps to prepare books for the accountant.

Related: “What’s the Difference between Accountants and Bookkeepers?”

Accounting Tasks

  1. It helps you perform accurate audits.
  2. It provides you with tax advice.
  3. It even helps you file tax returns and conducts tax planning.
  4. It helps you analyze the cost of operations.
  5. It even helps in advising business owners during their financial decision-making.

Related: “Accounting for Small Business Owners”

The Functions of Bookkeeping and Accounting

Bookkeeping is comprised of:

  1. Posting debits and credits. 
  2. Producing invoices.

Accounting is comprised of:

  1. Analyzing the costs of operations.
  2. Completing income tax returns.

Related: “How to Find a Reliable Accountant”

Which Is Better?

Both bookkeepers and accountants are required for organizing financial records and balancing finances, along with accurate tax filing. Plus, both accounting and bookkeeping play a vital role in contributing to the long-term success of every business. However, you should know that the charges for accounting and bookkeeping may vary accordingly. Lastly, it all depends on your choice, as whichever option you choose, your main concern should be to help your business grow and expand at the same time.

Wrap Up

If you’re looking for professional accounting and bookkeeping services, you can rely on MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC. We offer professional accounting and bookkeeping services and support from a team of knowledgeable experts in Mission, TX. Check our website to learn more about our services, or simply give us a call at (956) 997-0067 for further assistance.

3 Signs That Your Business Needs Accounting Services

January 19, 2022 / / 0 Comments
An accountant sitting at a desk with a computer doing taxes

For startups, it is easy to get by without the services of an accountant in the beginning as there is barely any need of it. If you own a business and have access to an accounting software with the know-how of accounting for small business owners, you will do just fine. But as you continue to expand, there will be tell-tale signs that it is time to hand over the task to a professional accountant.

1. Your business has experienced a major growth spurt.

With great power, comes great responsibility. Every business owner dreams of such progress and if you are experiencing such a shift in paradigm, you will need to expand. More staff, inventory, work processes, and internal system only leads to more paperwork and calculations. It is wise to have a person dedicated to this task and responsible for keeping all the finances in order.

2. You find yourself in need of professional financial reporting.

If your business is in search of investors or loans, it is better to have your company’s financial state and history in order. It is one of the most integral parts of a loan application or a proposal to investors. You will need a professional who knows the trade inside out. An accountant understands the relevant information that needs to be included with financial reports to score investors and loans. An accounting specialist will also produce financial forecasting for your business. This will provide insights for what direction your business is heading to.

3. An audit hangs over your head.

An audit due can be a stressful experience. If it is your first time being audited, you should know what the audit process is. If you don’t have a professional accountant by now, it’s high time you get one. An accountant will work through your paperwork and help you organize and identify the information that the IRS will inquire about in the audit. Your hired accountant can also directly liaise with the IRS on your behalf. This will free up your time to work towards more productive and constructive goals. 

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Conclusion

MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC offers professional accounting and bookkeeping services in Mission, TX. We guarantee you success through our highly experienced team of accountants, tax experts, and bookkeepers. We don’t ask for your vote of confidence – we will earn it through our services. Get yourself an accountant at MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC or call us at (956) 997-0067 to book an appointment.

How Accounting Services Can Drive Your Business

December 30, 2021 / / 0 Comments

Accounting refers to the detailed and systematic recording of any financial transaction in a business. Accounting plays an essential role in running a company, mainly because it helps track income and expenditure. In addition, accounting enables statutory compliance and provides the government, investors, and management with qualitative financial information vital to making business decisions. Furthermore, it helps in scaling a business, as it generates critical financial statements, such as:

  • The income statement gives profit and loss information.
  • Balance sheets give a clear understanding of the financial position of any business.
  • A cash flow statement acts as a bridge between the income statement and the balance sheet.

Accounting reports the cash the business generates and spends during a specific period. Any business must keep its financial records clean and updated to enable the company to run smoothly. Below are the key points on how accounting can help speed up your business.

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  1. Enables Business Evaluation

Accounting helps in evaluating your business since financial records reflect the business operations. It also allows you to see the business’s financial position and get a better understanding of the business’s financial state. In addition, it enables in keeping track of gross margin, expenses, and compares the current data with the previous accounting. This report supports allocating budgets appropriately.

2. Allows for Budget Creation and Future Projections

Financial records play a crucial role for any business, especially for future projections. Budgeting is critical as you base business trends and forecasts on vital financial data provided by well-structured accounting processes.

3. Filing of Financial Statements

It is a requirement that businesses file financial statements with the register of companies. In addition, it’s critical to file them with the stock exchange, direct and indirect tax filing purposes. Accounting plays a vital role in these scenarios for business evaluation.

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Conclusion

For any business to be successful, there have to be clear financial records that govern the company. Business success is fundamental if you are looking to understand the financial state of your enterprise. If you need accounting, bookkeeping, audit, tax, and business management consulting services, contact our team of specialists at MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC.

What You Need to Know for the 2021 Tax Season

December 21, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Many will agree that 2020 has been a year of unique challenges but 2021 is just right around the corner! With that being said, below we discuss some things to keep in mind as we approach 2021 and the upcoming tax season.

Tax Day is Thursday April 15th, 2021

This is the date you must file you taxes before! Most can take the standard deduction which has increased from this year to $12,400 for single filers and $24,800 for married couples filing jointly. You may also itemize your deductions which is a little bit more painstaking, however is worth it if your itemized deductions exceed your standard deduction.

Stimulus Checks Aren’t Taxable

The CARES Act was instituted near the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and gave many citizens a onetime payment of $1200. These payments will not count as taxable income in the upcoming year which is great news for most tax payers! You can think of it as a kind of advanced refund you would have received as part of your 2021 tax refund.

Unemployment Income is Taxable

The pandemic has caused much of the country to shut down for extended periods of time, leaving many Americans jobless through no fault of their own. If you were one of the millions of Americans who received unemployment benefits in 2020, you have to pay taxes on that income. If you opted to defer taxes on your unemployment payments before you received them then you will need to save for the taxes that will be due when you file, or pay estimated quarterly taxes to stay ahead.

Final Thoughts

As always, consult your tax professional to get the most out of your taxes in 2021 and speak with someone who can help you in your specific financial situation. Mariela Ruiz, CPA, PLLC is here to help individuals and business owners in the Mission, TX community with their taxes and wishes you all a prosperous 2021!

What Can a General Ledger Tell You About Your Business?

November 27, 2020 / / 0 Comments

According to The Blueprint, “The general ledger is an essential part of accounting and bookkeeping processes. The general ledger serves as a repository for every transaction that is recorded, and is a must for any business using double-entry accounting.” Companies can use a general ledger as a way to view specific details from transactions from month to month or even the current year. Learn more about what a general ledger can do for your business.

Manage Expenses

Have you noticed you are paying more utilities and rent? Are there increased costs for professional services you were not aware of? You can access your transactions by running a general ledger report to see activity. These transactions are recorded in different account types, such as assets, revenues, expenses, etc. Within your expense category, you can find detailed information on rent, payroll, and professional services you use. A general ledger allows you to manage overhead costs and get an overall view of your business expenses.

View Monthly Activity

If you need to look at expenses from March to April, run a general ledger report for more details. This accounting practice is encouraged for company owners to see their activity for a specific time period. The general ledger will have beginning and ending balances for the months you need. Any activity between those time periods are shown, which can be activity from sales, payroll, inventory adjustments, and more.

Catch Any Errors

If there is an unusual increase in expenses from a certain category, turn to your general ledger. You can look for errors by viewing the activity. In addition, you can check on any journal entries recorded or modified. Corrections for any errors can be made within the journal entry. If the journey entry is true, then no correction is necessary.

Conclusion

When you need general ledger accounting, contact MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC. We review and analyze your general ledger for any discrepancies and determine if corrective action is necessary. To learn more about our general ledger service, call (956) 997-0067 or visit us online here.

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