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Good recordkeeping is just good business

Posted by Admin Posted on Nov 26 2019

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Recordkeeping is an important part of running a small business. In fact, keeping good records helps business owners make sure their business stays successful.

Here are some things small business owners should remember about recordkeeping:

  • Good records will help business owners:
    • Monitor the progress of their business
    • Prepare financial statements
    • Identify income sources
    • Keep track of expenses
    • Prepare tax returns and support items reported on tax returns
  • Small business owners may choose any recordkeeping system that fits their business. They should choose one that clearly shows income and expenses. Except in a few cases, the law does not require special kinds of records. 
  • How long an owner should keep a document depends on several factors. These factors include the action, expense and event recorded in the document. The IRS generally suggests taxpayers keep records for three years.
  • A good recordkeeping system includes a summary of all business transactions. Businesses usually record these transactions in books called journals and ledgers, which business owners can buy at an office supply store, or keep them electronically. All requirements that apply to hard copy books and records also apply to electronic business records.
  • The responsibility to validate information on tax returns is known as the burden of proof. Small business owners must be able to prove expenses to deduct them.
  • Business owners should keep all records of employment taxes for at least four years.
  • Businesses that keep paper records should keep them in a secure location, preferably under lock and key, such as a desk drawer or a safe.
  • Businesses that keep records electronically on a computer should always have an electronic back-up, in case the hard drive crashes.

If you have any questions regarding Essential Business Accounting, Domestic Taxation, International Taxation, IRS Representation, U.S. Tax Implications of Real Estate Transactions or Financial Statements, please give us a call at 305-274-5811.                                   

Source: IRS                     

The information provided on the LBCPA Blog is a community service for general information purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for consultation with professional advisors who specialize in the topics covered. Please refer to your advisors for specific advice on these subjects. The information is not intended to be used, and it cannot be used, for the purposes of avoiding U.S. Federal and/or State tax laws or the tax laws of any foreign jurisdiction.

These blogs contain general information only and Lord Breakspeare Callaghan LLC or any of the other companies or firms presenting information are not providing accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or other professional advice or services. Lord Breakspeare Callaghan LLC or any of the other companies or firms contributing with articles shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this information.