Mary Girsch-Bock

Why Spot Factoring May Be Right for Your Business

Spot factoring lets you contract with a factoring company on an as-needed basis to finance your invoices. Here we discuss the pros and cons of spot factoring.

What Tax Nexus Means for Your Small Business

If you're selling products online out of state, you need to collect sales tax in those states, thus creating a tax nexus. Learn how a tax nexus can affect your sales.

Double Taxation: What It Is and How to Avoid It

Shareholders that receive dividends can't avoid double taxation. However, if you have a corporation, here are three tips to help you avoid being double taxed.

IRS Form 14157: What It Is and Why You May Need It

If you suspect that your tax preparer is not reporting your taxes accurately, you can file an IRS Form 14157. Here's how to file a tax complaint with this form.

IRS Form 4562: What Is It Used For?

IRS Form 4562 needs to be submitted if you're depreciating or amortizing deductions on big-ticket items. In this guide, we break down the form part-by-part.

What Is a Subledger, and Why Is It Important?

A subledger provides details for the general ledger account and makes it easy to pay your bills and collect money owed. Here's how to manage your subledger properly.

SurePayroll vs. Gusto Payroll: Which Is Best for Your Business?

Looking for a payroll solution for your business? We compare SurePayroll and Gusto Payroll's best features, benefits, and more. Find out which is a better fit.

What You Should Know About Payroll Advances

If your employee runs into cash problems, a payroll advance could help. However, this can be abused if you're not careful. Follow these tips to avoid problems.

QuickBooks Online vs. Xero: Which Wins in the Invoicing War?

Quickbooks Online and Xero are two invoicing solutions rich with features, but which is better? The Blueprint compares both head-to-head and chooses a winner.

How to Prepare a Working Budget for Your Business

A working budget is designed for flexibility and allows you to change your budget as circumstances change. Learn how to write a working budget for your business.

The Top 25 Business Terms You Need to Know

If you're just starting your business, you might encounter some new terminology. Here are some common business and accounting terms you should be familiar with.

How to Reconcile Your Bank Statements in QuickBooks Online

Bank reconciliation ensures your bank account's balance and your general ledger match. Learn how to reconcile your bank statement using QuickBooks Online.

What Are Prepaid Expenses and How to Record Them Properly

Prepaid expenses are expenses that have not yet been recorded but have already been paid in advance. Learn how to record prepaid expenses in four steps.

Why Cost Control Is Important for Your Small Business

When managing a project, you want to keep costs under control so the project stays on track. Here are five tips to help you control costs in your business.

The Best Accounting Software for the Self-Employed

Are you self-employed and looking for an accounting software solution for your business? Here we cover our top accounting software picks to help you decide.

Is Zero-Based Budgeting Right for Your Business?

Zero-based budgeting uses strategic goals to align what expenses you want to add to your business budget. Follow these five steps to create a zero-based budget.

Check Fraud: What It Is and How to Avoid It at Your Business

If your business accepts checks, you need to be on the lookout for check fraud. Learn how your business can protect itself from check fraud with these tips.

10 Unexpected Costs Your Business May Encounter

If you're running a business, chances are that you've come across some unexpected costs. Here are 10 unexpected costs your small business may stumble upon.

Is an EIDL Loan Right for Your Small Business?

Are you considering an EIDL loan? Make sure you understand the terms and requirements before applying. Here are the pros and cons of getting an EIDL loan.

Why You Need to Create an Emergency Fund for Your Business

Is your business ready for those unforeseen and possible tough times ahead? Learn how to cut unnecessary expenses and stash cash into a business emergency fund.

Form 2553: What It Is and Why You May Want to File It

If you are looking to lower your tax liability, consider filing a Form 2553 for your small business. Here are three reasons why you want to file Form 2553.

Why You Need to Understand Margin

Profit margin measures the profitability of your business and should be calculated regularly. Here are three profit margins that your business should calculate.

Budget Variances: How They Can Help You Create an Accurate Budget

Budget variances are instances where your budgeted costs differ from the actual costs. Here's how to use your budget variance to create an accurate budget.

Return on Investment (ROI) and What It Means For Your Business

ROI is a ratio that determines how effective your investment is in generating income. Here are the pros and cons of calculating ROI for your small business.

The 5 Top Expensify Alternatives

Expensify is a popular expense management platform with great features, but it might not be for you. Here we give you our top five Expensify alternatives to try.

3 Non-Cash Expenses Your Business Can Experience

Depreciation is a non-cash expense that is used to expense big-ticket items over time and doesn't affect cash flow. Here's how to record a non-cash expense.

How to Process Expense Reports for Your Small Business

Are you unsure how to process expense reports and need a few tips to get started? Here are five expense reporting best practices that will simplify the process.

A Guide to Reimbursing Expenses

Setting up an employee reimbursement policy can alleviate a lot of employee frustrations. Here are six tips for recreating an expense reimbursement plan.

Expense Management Best Practices for Your Small Business

Good expense management can help your small business control issues like overspending and fraud. Here are 10 best practices to implement in your business.

How to Record Your Accounting Transactions

Recording your business transactions is part of accounting and must be recorded in a timely and accurate way. Here are six ways to record your transactions.

Early Payment Discounts: Should You Use Them in Your Business?

Offering early payment discounts to customers can incentivize them to pay their bills early and increase business cash flow. Here we outline the pros and cons.

How to Calculate Tax Liability for Your Business

Tax liabilities are the amount of taxes that you owe to a tax authority such as the IRS or the state. Here are a few tax liability examples you should consider.

Tallie Review

Tallie is an expense reporting platform that gives you control over your expenses and increases productivity. We've reviewed Tallie's top features and more.

A Guide to the Current Ratio and How to Use It in Your Business

The current ratio determines the financial health of your company and helps you make adjustments as necessary. Find out how financially stable your business is.

Rydoo Review

Rydoo is a comprehensive expense management platform that can approve expense claims in real time. In this review, we outline Rydoo's best tools and benefits.

How Should You Classify Office Expenses?

Office supplies fall in the asset category, but they are purchased for consumption, meaning it can fall into an expense category. Here's how to classify them.

Calculating Cash Flow From Investing Activities

The cash flow statement shows all long-term investing activities and how well cash is being managed. Here are some examples of investment activities to track.

Goodwill Accounting: What It Is and How to Calculate It

Goodwill accounting is the difference between the purchase price of a business and its book value. Learn what it is and how to calculate it in five steps.

Zoho Expense Review

Zoho Expense is a cloud-based expense tracking solution that offers easy expense report creation. We've reviewed Zoho Expense's best tools and benefits.

Billable Hours: What They Are and How to Track Them

Billable hours are the number of hours a contractor charges for performing a specified service for a client. Learn how to track billable hours properly.

How to Allocate Functional Expenses for Your Nonprofit

The statement of functional expenses is a detailed list of expenses such as salaries, rent, and utilities. Here are four ways to allocate functional expenses.

Expensify Review

Expensify is an easy-to-use receipt and expense management application that boosts productivity. In this review, we outline Expensify's top tools and benefits.

CPA or Accountant: Which One Does Your Business Need?

CPAs and accountants perform similar tasks, but which one do you need for your business? Learn when it makes sense to use a CPA versus an accountant.

The Debt Service Coverage Ratio and How to Calculate It

The debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) determines your ability to take on additional debt. Learn how to calculate your DSCR before applying for a loan.

Concur Expense Review

Concur Expense is an expense management platform that takes the pain out of managing expenses. We've reviewed Concur Expense's top features, benefits, and more.

How to Track Your Time in FreshBooks

When you don’t bill your clients properly, you’re losing money. Freshbooks' time-tracking features make it easy for you. Here are three popular features to use.

How to Create an Invoice With FreshBooks

Creating an invoice can be simple if you're using accounting software like FreshBooks. Learn how easy it is to create a FreshBooks invoice in just six steps.

What Is a Cost Center and Why Are They Important to Your Business?

Cost centers are designed to add value to the company by managing accounting and financial analysis tasks. Learn how they work and the benefits they provide.

Abacus Review

Abacus is a real-time expense reporting platform that can immediately reconcile your team's expenses. We've reviewed Abacus's top features and mobile app.

ExpensePoint Review

ExpensePoint is a cloud-based employee expense management software designed to make expense tracking easy. We've reviewed ExpensePoint's best tools and more.

How to Analyze Your Financial Statements

Analyzing financial statements helps small business owners understand the financial health of their company. Learn how to perform financial statement analysis.

Certify Review

Certify is an expense management solution that automates the entire expense management process. In this review, we highlight Certify's best features and more.

A Guide to Paying Yourself From Your LLC

As the business owner of an LLC, you might be asking yourself, how do I pay myself? Learn the benefits of starting an LLC and how to pay yourself accordingly.

Accounting for Startups: What You Need to Know

Accounting for startups is important since you’re likely operating your small business on a limited budget. Here are 10 accounting basics you need to track.

What Is a Pro Forma Invoice, and When Should You Use One?

Businesses use pro forma invoices to provide customers with an estimate for goods or services. Learn when to use a pro forma invoice in your business.

Understanding Audit Assertions and Why They’re Important

Audit assertions serve as management's claim that the financial statements are accurate. Here are eight audit assertion categories used to verify financials.

Understanding the Payback Period and How to Calculate It

The payback period formula determines how long it takes for a business to recoup its initial investment. Learn how to calculate it plus see an example.

The Cash Conversion Cycle and How to Calculate It for Your Business

The cash conversion cycle (CCC) is a metric that measures the number of days it takes to convert inventory into cash. Learn how to calculate it (plus examples).

Why the Post-Closing Trial Balance Is so Important for Your Business

A post-closing trial balance report makes sure your temporary account balances are reset to zero to begin the new accounting period. Here's a detailed example.

Why You Need To Know Your Overhead Rate

The overhead rate is determined by calculating how much indirect overhead is spent to produce products or services. Learn how to calculate it plus see examples.

Bookkeeping vs. Accounting: A Small Business Guide to the Differences

Bookkeeping and accounting are similar, yet also very different. In this article, The Blueprint explains the importance of the differences to small businesses.

How to Set Up Petty Cash for Your Business

Petty cash is the money a small business keeps on hand to pay for miscellaneous things. Learn how to set up and use petty cash in five steps plus see examples.

Net 30: Good or Bad for Your Business?

Net 30 is a credit term that gives customers up to 30 days to make full payment. Here we explain the pros and cons so you can decide which option works best.

SG&A Expenses and Why They’re Important

SG&A expenses are all the non-production costs of running a business. Learn how to calculate and track SG&A expenses to get better insights into performance.

Top 10 Payment and Invoicing Terms You Should Know

Depending on your customer's profile, you might offer different payment terms based on certain criteria. Learn which payment terms to use in your small business.

How to Calculate Net Profit Margin for Your Business

Net profit margin determines the percentage of profit your company generates from total revenue. Learn how to calculate it, and learn from these two examples.

Understanding the Cash Coverage Ratio and How to Calculate It

If your business is carrying debt, the cash coverage ratio identifies if your business has sufficient funds to pay it. Learn how to calculate it and see examples.

Margin vs. Markup: Why You Need to Calculate Both

Both margin and markup are used by companies to measure profit margin or to set pricing strategies. Learn how both metrics can improve profitability.

How to Calculate Days Sales Outstanding and Why It Matters

Days sales outstanding (DSO) is a ratio that measures how many days it takes your customers to pay you. Learn the significance of DSO and how to calculate it.

What Is Accounting?: A Guide for New Business Owners

Accounting gives you in-depth financial knowledge about your company. Here's why it’s important to use it in your small business -- plus learn the four types.

Why Small Business Owners Should Always Estimate an Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (ADA)

Creating an allowance for doubtful accounts (ADA) allows you to offset your accounts receivable account balance. Learn how to estimate the ADA with these examples.

What Is a Not-for-Profit Business and How Does It Differ From a For-Profit Business?

While most nonprofits serve the good of the general public, not-for-profit organizations benefit a certain group of people, such as social clubs and civic leagues.

What Is Account Reconciliation and Why Is It Important for Your Business?

Account reconciliation ensures the amount of money spent matches the amount shown leaving an account. Learn why it's important to regularly check for errors.

Should You Use Cash Discounts in Your Small Business?

You can get customers to pay invoices early by offering a cash discount, but is it a viable option for your business?

How to Use Contra Asset Accounts

A contra asset account is an asset account in which the balance of the account has a credit balance. Learn the benefits of using it for your accounts receivable.

What Are Control Accounts?

Control accounts take the balance of the accounts in the subsidiary ledgers and post the total into a general ledger. Learn how to use them in your business.

Why Allocating Costs Is Important for Your Small Business

Part of running a successful business is tracking and allocating costs. Learn what cost allocation is and why you should be using this accounting measure in your business.

Current Ratio vs. Quick Ratio: Learn the Difference

Both the current ratio and the quick ratio measure a business's ability to generate enough cash to pay its debts. Here's how they differ and how to calculate each.

Understanding the Cost Principle Is Important to Your Business

The cost principle requires that assets be recorded at the original purchase price, but what is it? Here are three examples of when to use it and its benefits.

A Guide to Properly Managing Plant Assets

Plant assets are long-term assets that produce goods and services for customers. Here are some common examples of plant assets and how to depreciate them.

The Accounting Equation: How to Use It in Your Small Business

The accounting equation helps you understand how assets, liabilities, and owner's equity relate. Here's how to calculate this key equation -- and how to use it.

11 Common Types of Liabilities

Managing liabilities is part of being a business owner, but did you know there are different types of liabilities? Here's a primer on each type.

AccountingSuite Review

AccountingSuite is an easy-to-use accounting solution with good inventory management. In this review, we highlight AccountingSuite's best features and more.

Deferred Revenue: How to Recognize It Properly

Any revenue received in advance of the delivery of goods or services is considered deferred revenue. Here's how it works and why it's so important for businesses.

The Importance of the Times Interest Earned Ratio

The times interest earned ratio is a measure of a company's ability to make interest payments on its debt obligations. Learn how this ratio can be useful for your business.

The Asset Turnover Ratio: An Important Ratio for Small Businesses

Asset turnover is a financial ratio that measures a company's ability to generate sales from its assets. Learn how to calculate this ratio in three easy steps.

What Is the Double Declining Balance Depreciation Method?

Double declining balance (DDB) depreciation is an accelerated depreciation method that depreciates expenses faster in the early years of an asset's life.

What Is Capex and How Do You Calculate It?

Capex, or capital expenditures, are an investment in the future growth of the business. Here we explain what it is and how to calculate capex in four steps.

Product Cost vs. Period Costs: What Are the Differences?

Product and period costs are both associated with product manufacturing. Learn the difference between them so you can better track costs for your business.

How to Record a Depreciation Journal Entry

Using depreciation allows you to depreciate assets and certain costs over time. This guide discusses how to calculate the depreciation expense journal entry.

Direct vs. Indirect Labor: What Are the Differences?

In order to get a clear picture of your labor costs, you should know your direct labor and indirect labor costs. Learn how to calculate both for your business.

What Are Overhead Costs and How to Track Them

A business has overhead costs that should be tracked to make sure the business is covering those costs. Learn how to track overhead costs for your business.

What Is a Classified Balance Sheet, and Do You Need One for Your Business?

A classified balance sheet breaks down assets, liabilities, and equity into categories. Learn how to use the accounting equation with a classified balance sheet.

Zoho Books vs. FreshBooks: Which Is Best for Your Business?

Zoho Books and FreshBooks are two accounting software solutions with great reporting options. In this comparison, we look at the best features each has to offer.

ZipBooks vs. Wave: Which Is Better for Your Business?

Both ZipBooks and Wave are two good accounting software, but which one is best for your business? We compare both here so you can decide which is a better fit.

What Is Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) and Does It Affect Your Business?

Full-time equivalent (FTE) determines how many full-time and part-time employees your business employs. Learn how to calculate full-time equivalent and why it matters.

Horizontal Analysis: Should You Be Using It in Your Business?

Horizontal analysis compares financial statements to get an in-depth look at financial performance. Here's how horizontal analysis can help you spot key trends.

The Difference Between Sales and Revenue

Sales and revenue are two terms often used interchangeably, but in reality, they often mean different things. Learn the differences between these two terms.

Top 5 Accounts Payable Software Applications for Your Small Business

If your business is using the accrual accounting method, you need to manage accounts payable properly. Here's best software for processing accounts payable.

How to Prepare a Statement of Retained Earnings

Retained earnings is the net profit your business generates that's retained for future use. The Blueprint covers how to prepare a statement of retained earnings.

5 Best Bookkeeping Software Solutions for Small Businesses

Do you need a good bookkeeping software solution for your business? Here are The Blueprint's picks for the top five bookkeeping solutions for small businesses.

How to Create a Master Budget for Your Business

A master budget is a helpful tool for smaller manufacturing businesses. The Blueprint explores how to prepare a master budget for your small business.

Accounts Payable vs. Accounts Receivable: Learn the Differences

Accounts payable and accounts receivable are regularly used in double-entry accounting. Here's how to use them to keep your small business running smoothly.

Why You Should Calculate Your Net Working Capital

Net working capital (NWC) gives you a snapshot of the financial health of your business. The Blueprint outlines how to calculate net working capital.

Why Payroll Reconciliation Is Important for Your Small Business

Payroll is a big business expense, and it's important to get it done right to keep employees happy. The Blueprint explains how to do a payroll reconciliation.

Should You Use the Periodic Inventory System for Your Business?

Periodic inventory systems are used by smaller businesses that do a physical inventory. The Blueprint covers the benefits of the periodic inventory system.

How to Record Unearned Revenue

Unearned revenue is money that has been received when the product or service has not yet been provided. The Blueprint explains how to record unearned revenue.

The 5 Best Accounting Systems for Small Businesses

Finding the right accounting software can be a big challenge for small businesses. The Blueprint outlines five accounting systems and how they stand out.

Variable Costs: How They Affect Your Business

Variable costs rise or fall with production levels. Learn about the different types of variable costs and how to calculate them for your small business .

FreshBooks Alternatives: Which One Is Right for Your Business?

FreshBooks is an intuitive business accounting solution, but it’s not the right fit for everyone. The Blueprint details 10 Freshbooks alternatives.

Xero Alternatives: Which One Is Right for Your Business?

Xero is a great accounting solution, but you may want to consider other options. The Blueprint covers the best Xero alternatives for your small business.

How to Calculate Payroll Taxes for Your Small Business

Calculating employee payroll taxes can be challenging, so you might need some help. The Blueprint covers how to calculate payroll taxes for your small business.

7 Activity Ratios to Run for Your Small Business

Activity ratios are designed to measure the financial health of the business. Learn how to calculate this key financial metric in this guide from The Blueprint.

Direct vs. Indirect Costs: What's the Difference?

Learn the difference between direct vs. costs indirect costs. The Blueprint helps you categorize them properly. (Hint: Direct costs are specific to a product.)

How Management Accounting Can Help Your Business

Management accounting focuses on internal business operations and is used for decision-making. The Blueprint covers the main functions of management accounting.

How to Get Started with Financial Accounting

Financial accounting records transactions and summarizes those transactions using financial statements. The Blueprint covers the types of financial statements.

A Beginner's Guide to Trade Receivables

Managing trade receivables is vital for the stability and profitability of your small business. The Blueprint goes through how to reduce trade receivables.

How to Calculate Net Sales For Your Small Business

Net sales is reported on your income statement, but how do you calculate it? The Blueprint shows you how to calculate net sales for your small business.

LIFO vs. FIFO: Which Should You Use?

LIFO and FIFO are inventory valuation methods that will directly affect your financial statements. The Blueprint compares using LIFO vs. FIFO.

Income Statements: Which Format Is Best for Your Business?

The income statement gives businesses a clear snapshot of financial performance. The Blueprint goes through the various formats of the income statement.

Multi-Step Income Statement: Is It Right for Your Business?

The multi-step income statement gives detailed information about the health of your business. The Blueprint covers how the multi-step income statement works.

How to Calculate Gross Profit Margin

Determine the profitability of your business by calculating gross profit margin. The Blueprint goes through how to calculate the gross profit margin.

A Guide to Solvency: What It Means For Your Business

Solvency examines a business’s ability to pay its debt by meeting long-term obligations. The Blueprint discusses solvency and how it differs from liquidity.

Everything Small Businesses Need to Know about Business Expenses

What is a business expense and how do you know if it’s deductible? The Blueprint goes through the different ways to track your business expenses.

5 Steps to Preparing a Market Analysis for Your Small Business

Before selling a new product or starting a new business you should prepare a market analysis. The Blueprint goes through how to perform a market analysis

A Guide to Small Business Accounting for Beginners

Accounting can be intimidating for small businesses. The Blueprint goes through how to do accounting for your small business.

How to Calculate Your Cost of Goods Sold (COGS)

Knowing your cost of goods sold is a must for selling products and calculating net profit. The Blueprint goes through how to calculate cost of goods sold.

Fund Accounting: A Must for Nonprofits

Fund accounting is used by entities to properly account for funds received from various sources. The Blueprint goes through how fund accounting works.

Why Operating Income is Important for Small Businesses

Operating income is a valuable metric when determining the profitability of your business. The Blueprint shows you how to calculate the operating income.

Accrued Expenses: What They Are and Why They’re Important

Small businesses need to account for incurred expenses and you do this by accruing expenses. The Blueprint covers how to record accrued expenses.

The Direct Write-Off Method: Should You Use It In Your Business?

The direct write-off method is a convenient way to remove bad debt from your books. The Blueprint goes through how to use the direct write-off method.

Activity-Based Costing: Is It RIght For Your Small Business?

Activity-based costing is a method used to track the actual cost of producing a product. The Blueprint goes through how activity-based costing works.

Why Expense Recognition Principle is Important to Small Businesses

Expense recognition is a key component of accrual accounting. The Blueprint covers how the expense recognition principle works.

What is Profitability and How Do You Measure it?

Profitability is the measurement that can be used to determine the financial health of a business. The Blueprint goes through how to measure profitability.

What Is a Trial Balance and Why Is It Important?

A trial balance serves as a way to check for posting errors and to ensure that debits and credits match. The Blueprint goes through how the trial balance works.

The Top 10 Accounting Tools for Your Small Businesses

There are many tools on the market designed to help small business owners manage their accounting. The Blueprint goes through some of the best accounting tools.

A Beginner's Guide to Nonprofit Accounting

Nonprofit organizations need to track donations, handle tax receipts, and much more. The Blueprint goes through how to set up bookkeeping for your nonprofit.

Ratio Analysis: Why it’s Important for Your Small Business

Ratio analysis is most often used to analyze trends and get insights into the financial well-being of a company. The Blueprint shows you how to use ratio analysis.

Financial Leverage and How it Can Help Your Business

Financial leverage can be beneficial under certain conditions. The Blueprint discusses how financial leverage could be a good option for your business.

Why a Flexible Budget May Be a Good Option for Your Business

A flexible budget can be a useful resource to budget around variable costs. The Blueprint goes through how a flexible budget can help your business.

A Guide to Inventory Accounting Methods

When you keep inventory in stock, you need to ensure that it’s accounted for accurately. The Blueprint goes through different inventory accounting methods.

Why the Matching Principle is Important for Small Businesses

The matching principle states that revenue and expenses should be reported at the same time. The Blueprint covers the benefits of the matching principle.

Manufacturing Overhead: What You Should Know

An integral part of business profitability is to understand manufacturing overhead. The Blueprint covers how to calculate and allocate manufacturing overhead.

How to Calculate Gross Margin Ratio

The gross margin ratio helps businesses understand their profitability, considering gross profit and net sales. The Blueprint shows you how to calculate this ratio.

Chart of Accounts: Why It’s So Important For Your Business

Managing your chart of accounts is extremely important for small business owners. The Blueprint goes over how these accounts work.

Cash Basis vs. Accrual Basis: What's the Difference?

Cash and accrual basis accounting are similar, but differ in how they report revenue and expenses. The Blueprint discusses both accounting methods.

What Are Financial Statements?

Financial statements are reports that provide information regarding a company’s financial position. The Blueprint goes through different financial statements.

Temporary Accounts: How to Use Them Properly

Temporary accounts are an important part of the accounting process. The Blueprint goes through how to handle temporary accounts properly.

A Small Business Guide to T-Accounts

T-accounts are a useful aid for processing double-entry accounting transactions. The Blueprint goes through what T-accounts are and how T-accounts are used.

What Are EFT Payments?

EFT payments are designed to move money between bank accounts using a computerized network. The Blueprint explains how EFT payments work.

How to Calculate Free Cash Flow

Free cash flow is a measure designed to let you know the profitability of a company. The Blueprint explains why free cash flow is important for your business.

Square Payroll Review

Square Payroll provides the tools small business owners need to operate their business and pay their employees. The Blueprint takes an in-depth look at this.

What Operating Margin Tells You About Your Business

Operating margin is used to determine the profitability of a business. The Blueprint goes through how to calculate operating margin and why it is important.

Workday Payroll Review

Workday Payroll is part of the Workday HCM Suite, which includes Human Capital Management (HCM) and payroll capabilities. The Blueprint looks at this software.

How to Create a Retained Earnings Statement

Retained earnings are an important part of any business. The Blueprint provides you with 4 simple steps on how to create a retained earnings statement.

Wave Payroll Review

Wave Payroll is an add-on module for very small businesses from Wave Accounting. The Blueprint takes an in-depth look at this payroll software.

TRAXPayroll Review

TRAXPayroll offers a complete payroll solution designed specifically for small business owners. The Blueprint takes an in-depth look at this payroll software.

How to Process Accounts Receivable for Your Small Business

Accounts receivable helps you recognize your current revenue stream. The Blueprint gives you a step-by-step instructions on how to process accounts receivable.

Zenefits Payroll Review

Zenefits Payroll is a surprisingly robust add-on option that offers full-service payroll processing. The Blueprint takes an in-depth look at this.

Accounting Methods: Which One is Best for Your Business?

Depending on your business needs, you may use different accounting methods for your finances. The Blueprint looks at each method and how it works.

How to Calculate Straight Line Depreciation

Straight line depreciation is ideal for small businesses that need to depreciate fixed assets. The Blueprint shows you how to calculate this accounting measure.

Why Break-Even Analysis is Important for Your Small Business

For small businesses, a break-even analysis lets you know when you can expect to start earning a profit. The Blueprint explains how to calculate it.

Adjusting Entries: What They Are and Why You Need Them

For your financial statements to be accurate, you must prepare and post adjusting entries. The Blueprint explains what they are and why they’re so important.

What Is Depreciation and How Do You Calculate It?

Depreciation is the allocation of the cost of a fixed asset over a specific period of time. The Blueprint explains depreciation basics and how does it affect your business.

What Is a Balance Sheet and How Do You Prepare One?

A balance sheet is one of the three financial statements that businesses need to prepare. The Blueprint explains what a balance sheet reveals about your business.

Your All-Encompassing Guide to Bank Reconciliations

Completing a bank reconciliation ensures your ending bank statement and your general ledger account are in balance. Here are the steps to complete this key process.

The 10 Best Payroll Services for Your Small Business

For small business owners, payroll can feel like an overwhelming task. The Blueprint lists the top payroll services for small businesses.

Preparing an Adjusted Trial Balance: A Guide

Preparing an adjusted trial balance is an important part of the accounting cycle. The Blueprint walks you through the steps to create an adjusted trial balance.

Fixed Cost vs. Variable Cost: How to Tell the Difference

Businesses incur both fixed costs and variable costs on a regular basis. In this guide, The Blueprint explains both and how to tell the difference.

Operating Expenses and Business Operations for Your Small Business

Operating expenses reflect the cost of keeping your business running. Find out how rent, utilities, marketing, and other operating costs affect your income statement.

A Beginner's Guide to Working Capital

Working capital is an important business metric since the calculation determines the ability of a company to pay off current debts within a year.

Cash Flow Statements: What They Tell You About Your Business

Cash flow statements are important financial reports to find profitable and problematic areas of your business. The Blueprint shows you how to create a cash flow statement.

8 Steps to Creating a Profit and Loss Statement

A profit and loss statement provides businesses with a view of important financial data. In this step-by-step guide, The Blueprint explains how to create one.

QuickBooks Online vs. QuickBooks Desktop: Which Is Better for Your Business?

Quickbooks Online and the desktop version offer excellent accounting capabilities for your small business. The Blueprint helps you decide which is right for you.

How to Calculate Margin: A Guide

It’s important for every business owner to understand how to calculate profit margin. The Blueprint's guide explains the importance of the profit margin ratio.

Exempt vs. Non-Exempt Employee: How it Impacts Your Business

All employees are divided into two categories: exempt and non-exempt. The Blueprint's guide to exempt employees explains everything you need to know for your business.

What are Intangible Assets and How Do You Record Them?

The Blueprint reviews what intangible assets are, demonstrates how to value them, and provides an example of how to record the amortization of an intangible asset.

Operating Cash Flow and What it Means for Your Business

The operating cash flow formula can provide you with insight into your business's profitability. The Blueprint walks you through understanding operating cash flow.

What Is Imputed Income?

Small business owners with employees need to understand imputed income and how to report it. This guide provides everything you need to know about imputed income.

When to Use Debits vs. Credits in Accounting

Understand the difference between debits vs. credits with this guide from The Blueprint, which also provides multiple examples and a handy reference chart.

Net Income vs. Net Profit: How They Affect Your Business

Net income and net profit are two terms frequently used by accountants and business owners alike. The Blueprint explains each term and clarifies if there is a difference between them.

What the General Ledger Can Tell You About Your Business

The general ledger is the backbone of your accounting system. Learn how your general ledger is crucial to understanding the financial health of your business.

A Small Business Guide to Pretax Income

The Blueprint's guide explains pretax income, a calculation businesses use to determine net income before taxes are deducted. Use this guide to calculate your business's pretax income.

QuickBooks Desktop Review

QuickBooks Desktop remains a classic accounting software choice for small business owners. The Blueprint reviews QuickBooks Desktop to help you decide if it's right for you.

A Guide to Calculating and Interpreting Your Debt-to-Asset Ratio

If you’ve financed part of your business assets with outside debt, you should learn your debt-to-asset ratio. The Blueprint breaks down how to use this formula.

Is Biweekly Pay Right for Your Business?

As a new business owner, you should decide what the best payroll cycle is for your business. Learn why many small business owners choose biweekly pay.

How to Use and Track Notes Payable

Unsure of the difference between notes payable and accounts payable? Read our explanation of what notes payable is and how it differs from accounts payable.

A Small Business Guide to the Revenue Recognition Principle

The revenue recognition principle, or just revenue principle, tells businesses when they should record their earned revenue. The Blueprint breaks down the RRP.

A Beginner's Guide to Quick Ratio

Do you know what the quick ratio measures? Learn how to calculate and interpret the quick ratio for your company, and how it may be useful for your business.

A Guide to Accounts Receivable Turnover Ratio

As a small business owner, chances are you’ve never heard of accounts receivable turnover ratio. Learn how calculating this ratio can provide valuable business insight.

A Beginner's Guide to Recording Journal Entries

If you’re unfamiliar with recording journal entries, or need a refresher, The Blueprint provides an explanation of what a journal entry is and why they’re necessary.

What Invoice Software Is Right for Your Business?

Do you create a lot of invoices? Do you want to be able to create them quickly? If so, The Blueprint provides the top picks for the best invoicing software.

Gusto vs. RUN Powered by ADP: Who’s the Winner?

Gusto and RUN Powered by ADP both offer full-service payroll solutions for small businesses. If you’re deciding between Gusto vs ADP, be sure to compare these two tools side by side.

QuickBooks Pro vs. QuickBooks Premier: Which is Right for Your Business?

Not sure which version of QuickBooks to purchase? Compare the features and pricing of QuickBooks Pro vs Premier -- the two most popular small business accounting applications.

The 7 Best Payroll Software Options for Accountants

Looking for a payroll software for accountants that will make your life easier? The Blueprint narrows it down to see which payroll applications are right for you.

How to Run Payroll for Your Restaurant

Not sure where to start with setting up payroll for your restaurant? Learn how restaurant payroll works and how payroll software can make your life easier.

QuickBooks Online Tutorial: A Beginner's Guide

Not sure how to use QuickBooks Online? This QuickBooks tutorial provides easy step-by-step instructions to help you get up and running quickly.

eSmart Tax Review

A lesser known tax software, eSmart Tax from Liberty Tax is great for small businesses. The Blueprint provides an in-depth review so you can decide if it's right for you.

A Beginner's Guide to Small Business Bookkeeping

Every business should have a system to properly manage your business budget. The Blueprint covers how you can get started with your small business bookkeeping.

TaxAct Self-Employed Online Review

TaxAct Self-Employed Online is part of TaxAct’s suite of tax preparation applications. The Blueprint provides an in-depth review of TaxAct's prices, features, and benefits.

TaxSlayer Self-Employed Review

Though not a household name like its competitors, TaxSlayer is a worthy name in the online tax preparation category. Find out more in our in-depth review.

H&R Block Review

H&R Block offers both a downloadable app and an online tax preparation program easy for anyone to use. The Blueprint reviews this platform to see if it's a fit for you.

How to Create a Business Budget for Your Small Business

Budgets are useful for controlling spending and growing revenue. The Blueprint breaks down how to create a business budget while strategizing for long-term success.

How to Categorize Business Expenses

Wondering what business expense category that bill you just paid falls into? The Blueprint takes a look at business expenses and how you should be categorizing them.

How to Manage the Accounts Payable Process

If you’re unsure about the correct accounts payable process and what it entails, be sure to read on for an in-depth explanation to help your accounting process.

RUN Powered by ADP vs. Paychex Flex: Which Is Right for You?

If you’re still trying to decide between ADP vs Paychex, be sure to check out The Blueprint's side-by-side comparison, where we look at features, ease of use, and cost.

ZipBooks vs. QuickBooks: Which Is the Right Tool for You?

If you’re undecided between ZipBooks vs. QuickBooks Online, check out The Blueprint's in-depth comparison of both accounting software options.

How to Track Business Expenses: 7 Steps for Success

If you own a small business, you'll have to know how to track business expenses. The Blueprint breaks down the steps to start tracking your expenses.

Top Accounting Ratios to Help Manage Your Business

All businesses should understand how to apply accounting ratios to calculate business profitability, analyze cash flow, and even calculate your market value.

What Are the 8 Different Types of Accounting?

From financial to forensic, there are different types of accounting fields. Find out what they are, how they differ, and the one similarity they all share.

The Top 25 Accounting Terms for Business Owners and Students Alike

If you can't separate an asset from a liability, you need to learn the basic accounting principles. Check out 25 accounting terms business owners should know.

ZipBooks Review

ZipBooks provides a decent feature suite for small business accounting. The Blueprint takes an in-depth look at this accounting software in our ZipBooks review.

TurboTax Self-Employed Review

TurboTax is one of the biggest names when it comes to filing your yearly taxes. The Blueprint breaks down whether their tax solution is right for you.

OneUp Review

OneUp is an easy-to-use, accessible accounting software for small businesses. The Blueprint takes a look at whether this is the right tool for you.

The 8 Best QuickBooks Alternatives for Small Businesses

QuickBooks Online is one of the most popular accounting software applications. If it isn’t right for you, check out some of the best QuickBooks alternatives.

How to Process and Run Your Own Payroll

Running payroll is one of your most important tasks as a business owner. The Blueprint breaks down how to do payroll with our step-by-step instructions.

How Managerial and Financial Accounting Differ

Managerial accounting is used for internal purposes, while financial accounting provides financial information based on accounting standards.

How to Prepare Your Closing Entries

The accounting experts at The Blueprint walk you through what closing entries are and how to close your books properly with a step-by-step guide.

The Beginner's Guide to the Accounting Cycle

The accounting cycle is completed at the end of the month, culminating in the close of that month’s books. The Blueprint breaks down the steps in the accounting cycle.

Paycor Review

Paycor is a payroll software solution for small- to mid-size businesses. The Blueprint helps you decide whether this is the right tool for you.

Paychex Flex Review

If your company is planning on expanding, Paychex Flex may be the perfect payroll software for you. The Blueprint takes a look at this option.

Intuit QuickBooks Online Payroll Review

QuickBooks Online Payroll provides a full-service payroll experience and allows you to connect other Intuit products for a comprehensive financial experience.

OnPay Review

OnPay's payroll service offers businesses an impressive list of payroll and HR features. The Blueprint breaks down whether OnPay is the right payroll tool for you.

FreshBooks vs. Wave: Which Software Should You Use?

Trying to decide whether FreshBooks or Wave is the right accounting software for you? Read The Blueprint's in-depth comparison of these two tools.

FreshBooks vs. QuickBooks: Which Is Best for Your Business?

The Blueprint compares FreshBooks vs. QuickBooks accounting software functionality to help you find the best tool for your small business bookkeeping needs.

Xero vs. Quickbooks Online: Finding the Right Accounting Solution for You

Considering Xero vs QuickBooks Online as the right accounting software for you? Check out our analysis of Xero and QuickBooks' pricing, features and more.

Wave vs. QuickBooks: Which Is Right for You?

Trying to decide between Wave and QuickBooks Online? Software experts at the Blueprint take an in depth look at these 2 options, including pros, cons, features and more.

GnuCash vs. Quickbooks Online: Which Is Right for You?

The Blueprint helps you decide whether GnuCash vs. QuickBooks Online is the right accounting software solution for you with our in-depth comparison.

RUN Powered by ADP Review

RUN Powered by ADP is a payroll solution for companies with less than 50 employees. Learn whether it's the right payroll software for your team.

Patriot Payroll Review

Looking for a simple and affordable payroll solution for your business? The Blueprint takes an in-depth look at whether Patriot Payroll is the right tool for you.

Gusto Review

Gusto Payroll combines well with its HR functionality to provide a well-rounded tool for small businesses. The Blueprint takes an in-depth look at Gusto.

SurePayroll Review

SurePayroll lets you run payroll quickly for 10 employees or less. Learn whether this is the right payroll solution for your small business.

Payroll4Free Review

If you're looking for a free payroll solution, Payroll4Free could be a great tool. Read The Blueprint's review to find out if it's right for your business.

Payroll Mate Review

Looking for a payroll solution for your small business? The experts at The Blueprint take an in-depth look at Payroll Mate, including features and pricing.

How to Calculate and Use Accounting Cost and Economic Cost

Is accounting cost sufficient for small businesses, or should you also incorporate economic cost? The Blueprint takes a look at which you should use.

How to Use Double-Entry Accounting

Double-entry accounting can help track your finances and keep your books in balance. Learn how your business can utilize this financial technique.

Accounting 101: The Basics You Need to Know

Do you understand double-entry accounting? Struggling to recall debits vs. credits? The Blueprint takes you through accounting 101.

What are Financial Projections and Why Do You Need Them?

Creating financial projections can help you map out the future of your business. The Blueprint walks you through the financial projection process.

Bookkeeping Basics for the Small Business Owner

Is cash an asset? What’s the difference between a liability and an expense? Learn the bookkeeping basics with our in-depth guide.

How to Create Your Own Expense Report

Need help creating an expense report? The accounting experts at The Blueprint break down what you need to know, including templates to use.

How to Write an Invoice for Your Small Business

If you’re a new business owner, you may be unsure how to write an invoice. We’ll guide you through the invoice process with our easy-to-follow steps.

Zoho Books Review

Zoho Books offers affordability and easy online access. A good entry-level accounting application with two plans available, Zoho is great for sole proprietors and freelancers.

AccountEdge Pro Review

AccountEdge Pro is a scalable, on-premise accounting program that offers all the features a growing business needs. Learn whether it's the right solution for you.

Sage Business Cloud Accounting Review

Formerly Sage One, Sage Business Cloud Accounting offers anytime, anywhere access, and with two plans available, it’s a perfect fit for sole proprietors and freelancers alike.

Sage 50cloud Accounting Review

Sage 50cloud Accounting is a hybrid accounting application designed to be installed on a desktop or workstation computer, but it also offers remote access using Microsoft Office 365.

Wave Accounting Review

Wave Accounting offers double-entry accounting in an easy-to-use application. Designed for small businesses and freelancers, learn whether it's right for you.

Kashoo Online Accounting Review

Kashoo is a cloud-based accounting application for small businesses with an affordable price tag. Read and discover if it's right for your needs.

FreshBooks Review

FreshBooks is an intuitive application dressed in an easy-to-use interface. Even computer novices will feel comfortable navigating FreshBooks, and the product offers a ton of features usually found in more robust (and more expensive) products.

QuickBooks Online Review

In our QuickBooks Online review, The Blueprint looks at the features of the online version of this extremely popular accounting software option.

GnuCash Review

GnuCash is free, open source software that offers both personal financial management and professional accounting capability. Learn whether it's the right fit for you.

Xero Review

Xero is an easy-to-use online accounting software that offers a ton of great features and the convenience of a mobile app. Learn if it's the right tool for you.