The school summer holidays are here — and if you're a business owner and a parent, you're probably wondering how you're going to juggle it all.
Between childcare, holidays, and trying to keep your business running, bookkeeping may fall to the bottom of your list. But it’s one of those things that, if neglected, can snowball into a much bigger mess by the end of August.
So here’s a helpful guide to keeping your finances in check with minimal time and stress — so you can enjoy the break without falling behind.
What You Must Keep Doing
Even when life gets hectic, these core tasks should stay on your radar:
✅ 1. Keep Sales Invoices Up to Date
Make sure you're still sending out invoices — no invoices means no payments!
✅ 2. Reconcile Bank Transactions Weekly
Even if it’s just once a week, log in to your software (like Xero or Sage) and reconcile your transactions.
✅ 3. Submit VAT Returns on Time
Don’t let VAT deadlines sneak up on you. If you're close to a deadline, prioritise this above all.
✅ 4. Track Expenses
Save those receipts! Whether it’s business mileage or office supplies, upload them to your document software (like Hubdoc or Dext).
✅ 5. Check for Unpaid Invoices
Late payers? A quick reminder email or automated system can do the chasing while you're at the beach.
Bookkeeping Hacks for Busy Parents
Here are some quick wins to help you stay on top of things without sacrificing your summer:
📆 1. Block Out One Hour a Week
Set a recurring “Finance Hour” in your calendar once a week — even if it’s 7:30am before the kids are up. A little consistency makes a big difference.
📲 2. Go Mobile
Most accounting software apps (like Xero) allow you to raise invoices, reconcile transactions, and check cash flow from your phone.
🧾 3. Use Receipt-Capturing Apps
Snap receipts as you go — no piles of paperwork to tackle later.
🧠 4. Automate What You Can
Set up recurring invoices, automatic payment reminders, or bank feeds. Once it's done, it runs itself.
👨👩👧👦 5. Involve the Family (if age-appropriate!)
Got a teenager? They can help file or upload receipts into your bookkeeping system (with a little training!).
Bonus Tip: Outsource the Stress
If you’re really stretched this summer, consider handing over your bookkeeping to a professional (like us!) even temporarily. We'll make sure nothing slips through the cracks while you focus on keeping the business — and the kids — ticking over.
Final Thoughts
Running a business and raising a family isn’t easy — especially in the summer. But by keeping on top of a few essentials and using some clever tools, you can stay in control without letting bookkeeping take over your holiday.
Need help lightening the load? Get in touch with Cashtrak — we’ll help you set up systems or take it off your hands entirely.
☀️ Here’s to a smoother, sunnier summer of bookkeeping!