Handling all of the financial comings and goings of your small business is a big responsibility. Not only do you have to make sure the numbers always add up, you are also responsible for keeping thorough documentation of every penny spent.

But like all of the other responsibilities you face in life, handling the finances for your firm doesn’t have to be a full-time job. Technology has granted entrepreneurs the benefits of software and seemingly infinite access to information.

Here are a few highly effective finance tips for small business owners today. Take an honest look at your current operation, and consider how you might lighten your heavy load of accounting for your organization.

Keep thorough records

When it comes to money on a business level, the government is always very interested in what you are doing. Keep thorough records of everything you spend, just in case the IRS decides to get nosy in your case.

Great recordkeeping is also essential when it comes to filing taxes for your small business. You don’t want the hassle of filing a tax amendment, but it’s reassuring to know that you can fix errors after submission has been completed.

Stellar accounting software

Find the best accounting software for your operations, and let technology do the job of more than one employee for a fraction of the cost. Here’s some insight on a few of the most popular accounting programs for small business needs.

Intuit Quickbooks Online: This is one of the best software solutions available for all-around excellence and usability. It doesn’t cost much, and QuickBooks online offers basic and advanced accounting options.

Xero: It’s always a challenge to find excellent software for Mac users, so we thought we’d throw you a bone. Xero is great for all of your accounting needs, but it also offers integration for more than 600 other applications.

Wave Financial: If you’re on a small business budget, Wave Financial is a free accounting software application that will help you sort out your financial challenges without the stress of a monthly payment.

Plan for regular ups and downs

Make room in your fiscal plans for the regular, seasonal ups and downs of your organization. There are inevitably certain times of the year when your business will be more profitable than others.

There are also times when resources are scarce. Plot out your financial progression to anticipate those times, as a way to level out your financial well-being.

Don’t be afraid to ask for a deal

Owning a business is expensive, and it’s always great to keep your eyes open for a new way to cut back on spending. Don’t be afraid to talk to vendors and other suppliers, and ask for a deal of some kind.