How to Avoid Nasty Surprises at Year-End With Smarter Forecasting

Year-end always arrives faster than you think. And while many business owners cross their fingers and hope for the best, a bit of forecasting can go a long way. You don't need complex models - just a clear sense of what's coming in, what's going out, and when.

Why Forecasting Matters

• Helps you plan for tax bills (and avoid cash flow crunches)

• Allows you to time investment or hiring decisions

• Gives you early warning if margins are tightening

• Builds confidence when applying for funding or credit

What You Should Be Forecasting

• Income (confirmed and expected)

• Costs (fixed and variable)

• Payroll and tax obligations

• VAT and other recurring outflows

Simple Tools and Approaches

• Use Excel or Google Sheets with basic formulas

• Update your figures monthly or quarterly

• Colour-code expected vs actuals

• Include space or "known unknowns" - like equipment repairs or delays

You Don't Need to Be Exact

Forecasting isn't about being perfectly right. It's about being less surprised - and more prepared - when things shift.

If you'd like a forecasting sheet set up (or just want someone to walk through your numbers with you), Anchorpoint can help make it feel less daunting and more useful.

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