Every small business needs a safety net. A safety net is a buffer that can help you weather the storms of running a business. It can take many forms but typically includes cash reserves, lines of credit, and insurance. In this blog post, financial advisor Jeff Martin explores how to create a safety net for your small Arizona business.
Increase Your Cash Reserves
One of the most important parts of a safety net is cash reserves. These are funds that you set aside specifically for tough times. That way, when unexpected expenses arise or revenue dips, you have the money on hand to cover them. We recommend setting aside enough cash to cover three to six months of operating expenses.
Establish a Line of Credit
Another important part of a safety net is a line of credit. This is essentially a loan that you can tap into when needed. The advantage of a line of credit is that you only pay interest on the portion of the loan that you use. We recommend getting a line of credit with an interest rate below 10%.
Buy a Home Warranty
If your business is based in your home, buy a home warranty to protect your home and appliances from unexpected repairs or replacements. A home warranty typically costs between $300 and $600 per year and can give you peace of mind knowing that your home and business are protected. When searching for home warranty companies in AZ, look for companies that have high ratings in terms of service and provisions.
Reassess Your Business Insurance
Insurance is another crucial element of a safety net. Make sure you have adequate coverage for your business property, liability, and vehicles. You may also want to consider professional liability insurance if your business provides advice or services. Review your coverage annually to make sure it still meets your needs.
Consider Switching to an LLC
If you're not already doing so, consider converting your business designation to an LLC. LLCs offer protection from personal liability for debts and obligations incurred by the business. This means that if your business ever faces legal trouble or bankruptcy, your personal assets will be protected.
Watch Your Cash Flow
It's important to keep track of your cash flow so that you can anticipate when expenses are due and make sure you have enough money to cover them. There are many ways to monitor cash flow, including using accounting software or hiring an accountant. Whichever method you choose, make sure it works for you and helps you stay organized.
Organize Financial Documents as PDFs
PDFs are an easy way to organize financial documents like invoices, receipts, bank statements, and tax returns. You can scan paper documents and save them as PDFs or save digital documents directly as PDFs. Once everything is in PDF form, it will be easy to find what you need when you need it. Plus, PDFs can be password-protected for added security.
Cut Costs
Last but not least, one of the best ways to create a safety net for your small business is to cut costs where possible. Review your budget regularly and look for areas where you can reduce expenses without sacrificing quality or service levels. Even small savings can add up over time and help improve your bottom line during tough economic times.
There are many things small businesses can do to create a safety net. By taking the abovementioned steps now, you'll be better prepared to withstand any tough times that come your way.