Bootstrap Budget Basics: 3 Office Expenses


Effective budgeting is a necessary step in properly managing your small business's financials. Without a detailed and accurate budget, you will have to contend with a substantial amount of financial backtracking and unexpected expenses that crop up regularly. This can create unnecessary stress, and it may even lead to the demise of your business. Don't sabotage your business success with ineffective budgeting strategies and projections. Below are some of the most commonly overlooked expenses in a small business environment. Ensure that your budget has properly allocated funds for these items. 

Dues & Memberships 

In many industries, membership in various associations and organizations may be beneficial or even required. You may need to pay annual dues to renew your business license, to obtain continued education, training that is required, and more. Make a list of all of the organizations that you belong to or want to join, and research their membership fees and training requirements. By budgeting for these expenses, you will prevent them from becoming a true burden on your budget. 

Office Supplies & Equipment 

Office equipment like copiers and printers are a necessity, and they often have a rather short lifespan. In fact, you may find yourself replacing them every few years. Some items, like copiers, may be leased rather than purchased, and you need to budget for the leasing fees. In addition, office supplies like toner, pens, paper, staples and more can add up, and you should allocate a healthy sum to these expenses each month. Finding a company to regularly buy from can save you a lot of time when deciding what you need, and money if they can partner with you. 

Insurance 

Small business owners generally need to pay for various types of insurance, and the cost of premiums can be high. For example, you may need to pay for your own health insurance premium as well as health insurance premiums for your employees. 

You may also need to purchase liability insurance and renters or property insurance. If you drive vehicles in your business, a commercial auto insurance policy may also be required. 

Life insurance for you and your employees may also be something you need to consider budgeting for. Because these premiums can be so expensive, it is imperative that you properly plan for them in your budget. 

Conclusion

The combination of these three expense items can account for several thousand dollars or more in your budget each year. You can imagine the incredible strain that your small business would face if you overlook their inclusion in your budget. Likewise, there may be other important work items that you are not properly budgeting for. Remember, an effective budget will allocate funds for all purchases that you need to make, and it often will even include a surplus allocated to unexpected expenses that may crop up as well. 





I hope you enjoyed this article about office essentials you need to keep in mind while determining your budget.

Interested in more articles about office management?

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Published by Michael J Schiemer
Owner of Bootstrap Business
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