SMALL BUSINESS FINANCE · BOOKKEEPING TIPS · PORTLAND, OR
The Blue Water Blog
Practical financial tips and bookkeeping advice to help small business owners stay organized, prepared, and in control of their money.
Beware of These Common Tax & Business Scams
As business owners, you are constantly receiving emails, text messages, and phone calls about payments, invoices, tax notices, and account updates. We have had several clients forward suspicious messages to us recently asking, “Is this real?” That question alone can save thousands of dollars.
What to Do When Your Bookkeeper or Accountant is Retiring
If your bookkeeper has shared that they are planning to retire, you may be wondering what this means for your business. We have helped several business owners through this exact situation. Most of them did not realize how much their bookkeeper handled until they started thinking about the transition. The good news is that with the right steps, this does not have to disrupt your business.
Thinking About Hiring a Business Coach in 2026?
If hiring a business coach is part of your plan for 2026, there is one thing you need before you start. Your numbers!
Costly Bookkeeping Mistakes Businesses Made in 2025
As we reviewed 2025 financial records, the same bookkeeping mistakes showed up again and again. Not because business owners were careless, but because the impact was never clearly explained. Below are some of the most costly issues we saw and how to fix them moving forward.
How to Choose a Business Bank Account as a Solopreneur or Small Business Owner
Choosing the right business bank account is an important step for solopreneurs and small business owners. The account you use impacts how you manage cash flow, track expenses, and keep your finances organized throughout the year.
What Business Owners Need to Do Before Tax Season Starts
Tax season has a way of sneaking up on business owners, and the best way to reduce stress is to prepare ahead of time. Getting organized early makes tax season much easier once things get busy.
Top Accounting Software Options for Business Owners
If your current accounting system feels confusing, outdated, or no longer fits your business, it may be time to consider a change. The right accounting software can save you time, improve accuracy, and give you better insight into your numbers so you can make more confident decisions.
How Much to Set Aside for Taxes in Your Business
One of the most common questions we hear from business owners is how much they should be setting aside for taxes. Many of our clients come to us feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or surprised by their tax bill because they were never taught how to plan for it throughout the year. Once we walk them through a simple system, they feel more confident and more in control of their finances. You can use the same approach in your business.
Cash Flow Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them
Cash flow is one of the biggest challenges business owners face, and most issues come from a handful of habits we see over and over again. The good news is that these mistakes are easy to fix once you understand what is causing them. Here are the most common cash flow problems and how to avoid them.
When to Move from DIY Bookkeeping to Professional Support
Many business owners start out doing their own bookkeeping. It is practical in the beginning and helps you stay close to your numbers. However, as your business grows, there comes a point when DIY bookkeeping begins to slow you down.
These are the same reasons clients come to us again and again. We see the same patterns repeat, and they are usually a clear sign that it is time to bring in professional support.
How Your Personal Finances Impact Your Business Success
It’s easy to think of your business and personal finances as two separate worlds, but the truth is, they’re deeply connected. The way you manage money in your personal life often sets the tone for how you handle your business finances.
How to Delegate Effectively and Actually Save Time
As business owners, we’ve all said it... “It’s just easier if I do it myself.” But the truth is, learning how to delegate effectively isn’t about giving up control. It’s about freeing up time to focus on what truly grows your business.
Financial Tips for the Holiday Season for Small Businesses
The holiday season is here which means it’s time to balance celebration with smart financial planning. Here are a few financial tips to help you finish strong and step into 2026 with confidence.
Catch-Up or Clean-Up. Which Bookkeeping Service Do You Need?
Not all bookkeeping problems are the same, and the solution depends on your situation. This blog discusses how to tell which service fits your business best.
Why You Need to Clean Up Your Chart of Accounts
Your chart of accounts is the foundation of your bookkeeping. It organizes all your income, expenses, assets, and liabilities into categories. When it’s set up properly, you get clear financial reports that make decision-making easier.
Ready to Stop Doing This Yourself?
Schedule a free consultation. Let’s find the right bookkeeping plan for your business.