If most of your revenue lands in a few busy months, the quiet months decide whether the year feels comfortable or stressful. A rolling cash-flow forecast makes them predictable.
Build a 13-week forecast
List expected cash in and cash out by week: customer payments, payroll, rent, suppliers, loan payments and tax deadlines. Update it every Friday.
Set a minimum cash buffer
Decide the lowest balance you’re comfortable with — often two months of fixed costs — and treat it as a hard floor.
Use the levers you control
- Ask for deposits or retainers in the busy season.
- Negotiate supplier terms before the quiet months.
- Arrange a line of credit while the numbers look strong.
