When you’re running a small business, it’s easy for bookkeeping to slide down the to-do list. The problem? Small mistakes can quickly snowball into big headaches — and even bigger costs.
Here are five of the most common bookkeeping errors I see, and some simple ways to avoid them.
1. Mixing Business and Personal Finances
It might seem easier to run everything from one account, but separating your business and personal finances is crucial. Not only does it make your bookkeeping cleaner, it also makes life much easier when tax time rolls around.
2. Not Reconciling Bank Accounts Regularly
If you’re not checking your bank transactions against your records at least once a month, things can get messy. Regular reconciliation means you’ll catch errors early — whether it’s a duplicate payment or a missed invoice.
3. Forgetting GST, FBT or RWT Deadlines
Late returns can mean penalties and unnecessary stress. Keeping a simple calendar of due dates (or outsourcing your returns entirely) ensures you’re always compliant.
4. Letting Invoices Pile Up
Late sending, late chasing, late payments — it all affects your cash flow. Having a clear system for accounts receivable means you know exactly what’s owed and when.
5. Not Backing Up Records
Losing your financial data can be devastating. Whether you use cloud software or an external hard drive, make sure you have a reliable backup process in place.
The Bottom Line
Good bookkeeping isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about giving you clarity, control, and peace of mind. Whether you need help setting up systems, training your team, or ongoing admin support, I can take the stress out of your business finances.
Want to get your books in order? Get in touch today.
Gemma Dawrant 
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