Managing your company's finances involves more than just keeping track of income and expenses. Effective financial management ensures your business remains profitable and sustainable. Two key components of small business bookkeeping are understanding the cost of goods and expenses, both of which play a vital role in your bottom line.
Cost of goods (COGS) includes the direct costs associated with producing goods or services. This can include materials, direct labor, inventory purchases, and specific equipment rentals. Since COGS is directly tied to production, it fluctuates as your sales increase or decrease.
Expenses, on the other hand, cover the ongoing costs of running your business that are not directly linked to production. These include office rent, utilities, general payroll, software subscriptions, and advertising. Unlike COGS, these costs tend to remain stable regardless of sales volume.
Gross profit is the revenue left after subtracting COGS. It reflects how efficiently your business produces goods or services. Net profit, however, accounts for all expenses, including COGS, and provides a complete picture of your business’s profitability.
Fixed expenses, such as rent, insurance, and administrative salaries, remain the same each month. Variable expenses, such as supply costs or commissions, change based on business activity. Knowing the difference helps you budget effectively and identify areas where you can adjust spending.
Understanding these financial concepts is crucial for making informed business decisions. Proper bookkeeping ensures that your financial records are accurate, allowing you to track profitability, manage cash flow, and plan for growth. However, managing these details on your own can be overwhelming.
O'Hare Consulting specializes in small business bookkeeping and business management services. We help local businesses in the Reno, Tahoe, and Carson City areas stay on top of their finances, ensuring accurate record-keeping and insightful financial analysis. By working with a trusted bookkeeping service, you can focus on growing your business while we handle the numbers.
Accurate bookkeeping isn't just about compliance—it’s about having the right financial data to make smart decisions. If you need support with bookkeeping and financial management, O'Hare Consulting is here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can streamline your financial processes and set your business up for success.
