Welcome to Tea on the Ledger - your go-to blog for modern business finance advice with a side of sarcasm and spreadsheets.
Run by a former Big4 accountant (yes, I survived!), this blog is here to make business way less boring and way more doable. Whether you’re freelancing, consulting, side hustling, or running a full-blown small business - this space is packed with practical tips, bookkeeping hacks, tax talk, and cash flow tricks to help you DIY your business finances like a pro.
I’m all about modernizing money management so ditch the dusty old accounting rules and get the inside scoop on how to actually run your business finances smarter, not harder. From decoding your P&L to avoiding tax-time panic, I’m spilling all the tea (with spreadsheets, not judgement).
Because your business deserves financial clarity……and you deserve content that doesn’t put you to sleep.
Tea on the Ledger Blog Categories:
What’s a Chart of Accounts? And Why Your Business Needs One
If you're a small business owner trying to stay on top of your finances, you’ve probably heard the term “chart of accounts” thrown around, especially if you're setting up QuickBooks, Xero, or chatting with your bookkeeper.
But what is it exactly? And do you really need one if you’re just starting out?
Short answer: Yes.
Longer answer: It’s the foundation of how your finances are organized…and it can save you time, stress, and money.
Let’s break down what a chart of accounts for small business actually is, why it matters, and how to set one up (without the overwhelm).
Why Most Side Hustles Fail Financially (And How to Avoid It)
Starting a side hustle is exciting. You’re finally turning that idea into income - whether it’s selling products online, offering freelance services, or monetizing a creative skill.
But while starting is easy… staying profitable is where most people stumble.
The truth? Most side hustles fail not because the idea is bad: but because the finances are messy, ignored, or misunderstood.
So if you’re growing a side hustle and want to avoid the most common money pitfalls, read on. These business finance tips for side hustles will help you stay in control, stay profitable, and build something that actually lasts.
Are You Overpaying? The Real Cost of Managing Business Finances
Let’s be honest: running a small business comes with a lot of hidden costs.
But one area that sneaks up on a lot of entrepreneurs? Managing your business finances.
Whether you're DIY-ing your bookkeeping, hiring a professional, or just winging it with a spreadsheet and crossed fingers, there’s a cost. And if you're not tracking that cost properly, you might be paying more than you think (in money and time).
So let’s break it down. Here's what goes into the cost of managing small business finances….and how to make sure you're getting the best return on every dollar you spend.
Don’t Start a Business Without Knowing These 5 Financial Basics
Starting your own business is exciting……but also a little terrifying. You’ve got the ideas, the passion, maybe even a logo. But before you dive into designing your website or printing business cards, you need to get your finances in check.
If you’re like most new entrepreneurs, you probably didn’t start your business because you love accounting. But here’s the truth:
👉 Understanding a few financial basics can be the difference between success and struggle.
Let’s walk through the five financial basics every new business owner needs to know - because skipping these can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.
How to Manage Business Finances Without Losing Your Mind
Let’s face it, managing business finances isn't exactly a party. Spreadsheets, tax deadlines, invoices, receipts from six months ago stuffed in a drawer somewhere... it’s no wonder most entrepreneurs feel like their brains are doing somersaults when it's time to "do the books."
But here's the good news: You can learn how to manage business finances without losing your mind….or your weekends. With the right habits, tools, and mindset, even the most numbers-averse small business owner can feel confident and in control.
Let’s break it down, step by step…