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.
How Often Should You Look At Your Numbers As A Business Owner?
One of the most common things we hear from business owners is, “I only really look at my numbers during tax time.” And honestly, we get it. You are busy running your business, serving clients, and managing everything else that comes with it.
4 Ways to Reduce Your Taxes Before You File
If you are feeling the pressure of tax season, you are not alone. Every year, we hear from business owners who say, “I wish I had planned earlier.” The good news is there are still a few smart moves you may be able to make before you file.
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.
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.
Ready to Stop Doing This Yourself?
Schedule a free consultation. Let’s find the right bookkeeping plan for your business.