Expense Control 101: How to Cut and Manage Small Business Costs

expense control how to cut small business costs manage company overhead

A recent study found that there were 30.2 million small businesses in the United States. With numbers like those, there must be some expense control tactics out there to help these businesses succeed, right?

Have your operational costs been going through the roof? Are you blowing through your budget before the month’s end?

We’re here to help you cut company costs. Implement these expense control tips and tricks to help reduce operating costs for your small business today.



How to Reduce Expenses

The best way to increase your bottom line is to minimize expenses and reduce operating costs. Let’s take a look at some of the possibilities for reducing business expenses.


Consider Payroll

Think about taking over your payroll yourself. Using a company like CheckMark Payroll can save you time and money. You cut out the middle man, never have to worry about checks coming late, and you can streamline the process by syncing the program with your timekeeping and accounting software.

Go Paperless

Going paperless is one of the easiest ways to cut unnecessary expenses. When you think about the cost of paper, printers, ink, and filing cabinets to store paperwork, it becomes clear that this is a critical step to reduce operating costs.

When you do use paper, use it wisely. Always print double-sided and reuse paper for notes or packing paper for boxes.


Think Before You Charge

Credit card interest can be a killer on your budget. Reducing your credit card balance is key when you’re deciding how to reduce expenses. While this option may not give you a ton of extra funds upfront, it will save your business money in the long run. You can read more about how to get out of credit card debt here.  


Lower Supply Costs

Shop around for the lowest cost before purchasing office supplies. Instead of heading down to the local office supply store, make some calls to bulk stores and let them know that you're shopping for your business. Ask if they can help you price items out or offer you any discounts.

Often buying larger quantities of supplies at once will cost less overall, just be sure to calculate your needs and not over-purchase.


Marketing Strategies

In this day in age, a lot of marketing can be done online which can cut the unnecessary expenses that come along with doing traditional print or broadcasting marketing.

Consider starting a referral program to entice current clients to spread the word about your business. Word of mouth is ideal marketing for procuring new customers, and it costs next to nothing.

Attend networking events. They are a great way to get your face out in the community and make valuable connections.


Final Thoughts On Expense Control

By moving a little out of your comfort zone and looking into creative new ways to handle things in your business, you can make some effective expense control changes to reduce operating costs. 

Be proactive when it comes to company expense control. By doing your research and implementing changes you will be well on your way to company expense control making your business a profitable one! Visit the Finance section of our website for more great tips on controlling expenses and financial management.

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