A Month-End Checklist You Can Trust

A good close process is repeatable, documented, and proportional to the size of the business.

Cash and credit cards

Reconcile every account through month-end. Investigate uncleared or duplicated transactions before accepting the balance.

Receivables and payables

Review aging reports. Make sure invoices, credits, bills, and payments are recorded in the correct period.

Payroll and liabilities

Confirm payroll expenses and liabilities agree to payroll reports and tax filings where applicable.

Scan the financial statements

Compare to prior month and budget if available. Unusual swings deserve explanation, not just acceptance.