Plain-text accounting insights, tutorials, and updates from the Beancount.io team.
Learn what expense reports are, how to create one, the three main types of expense reports, IRS-aligned expense categories, best practices for receipt management, and how to prevent expense fraud in your business.
US ecommerce accounting: multi-channel revenue, inventory/COGS, and sales-tax nexus so online sellers stay audit-ready.
Learn what the current ratio is, how to calculate it, and what a good ratio looks like for your industry. Includes formulas, a worked example, comparisons with the quick ratio and cash ratio, and practical strategies to improve your business liquidity.
Learn what cost of debt is, how to calculate it using the pre-tax and after-tax formulas, and why it matters for your business decisions. Includes worked examples, current benchmarks, WACC explained, and six strategies to lower your borrowing costs.
Learn how to convert from cash basis to accrual accounting step by step. Covers the four key adjustments (receivables, accrued expenses, prepaid expenses, deferred revenue), IRS Form 3115 filing requirements, Section 481(a) adjustments, common mistakes, and tips for a smooth transition.
Learn what a chart of accounts is, how to set one up with proper numbering and categories, and best practices for organizing your business finances. Includes examples for assets, liabilities, equity, revenue, and expenses, plus common mistakes to avoid.
Learn the key differences between cash and accrual accounting, the pros and cons of each method, IRS requirements for 2026, and how to choose the right accounting method for your small business.
Learn the 20 essential business budget categories every small business needs, how to organize fixed, variable, and periodic expenses, and practical tips for building a budget that drives smarter growth and maximizes tax deductions.
Learn how to budget on a variable or irregular income with practical strategies for freelancers, gig workers, and small business owners. Covers percentage-based budgeting, income buffers, tax planning, and revenue predictability tips.
Compare the best receipt scanner apps for small business in 2026, including Wave, Expensify, QuickBooks, Receiptor AI, Shoeboxed, Zoho Expense, and Dext. Learn IRS digital receipt rules, key features to evaluate, and tips for staying organized.
Learn what a balance sheet is, how to read one, and why it matters for your business. Includes a practical example, key financial ratios (current ratio, quick ratio, debt-to-equity), common mistakes to avoid, and tips for regular balance sheet review.
Learn what a balance sheet is, how to read and analyze one, the accounting equation (Assets = Liabilities + Equity), four essential ratios, common mistakes to avoid, and step-by-step instructions to create your own.
