3 Smart Questions Every Small Business Owner Should Ask Their Bookkeeper Each Month
If you’re not using your numbers to guide business decisions, you’re leaving money on the table. These 3 monthly questions will change that.
Running a small business isn’t easy. Between managing clients, juggling expenses, and trying to stay ahead of taxes, it’s easy to treat bookkeeping as just a box to check.
But here’s the truth:
Bookkeeping isn’t just about staying organized — it’s about understanding your business.
Whether you work with a freelance bookkeeper or a full team, asking the right questions each month can give you clarity, direction, and confidence in your decisions.
So what should you ask?
Let’s dive into the three most important questions you should be asking your bookkeeper every month.
1. “What Do These Numbers Actually Mean?”
Why this matters:
Getting your financial reports is great — but if you don’t understand what they’re telling you, you’re flying blind.
Ask your bookkeeper to walk you through:
Your Profit and Loss Statement: Are you making money or just covering costs?
Your Balance Sheet: What do you own vs. what do you owe?
Your Cash Flow: Is your income supporting your operations month to month?
📌Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to say, “Explain it to me like I’m five.” That’s what a good professional bookkeeper does.
2. “Is There Anything That Looks Off or Needs Attention?”
Why this matters:
Your bookkeeper sees the day-to-day flow of your money. They’re in a unique position to catch red flags before they become costly.
This question helps uncover:
Unusual spikes in spending
Missed or duplicate transactions
Late invoices or unpaid bills
Payroll errors or upcoming tax payments
🎯 A professional bookkeeper’s job isn’t just data entry — it’s to spot trends and protect your business. Give them a chance to speak up.
3. “What Should I Be Focusing On This Month Financially?”
Why this matters:
Your numbers should help you make better decisions, but most business owners don’t use them that way.
By asking this question, you open the door for:
Cash flow planning
Budget adjustments
Revenue goals
Strategic decisions (Can I hire? Can I invest in marketing?)
📈 Even a 10-minute monthly check-in can reveal smart moves or help you avoid bad ones.
Why These Questions Matter More Than You Think
Asking your bookkeeper the right questions turns your numbers into a powerful business tool.
Instead of waiting until tax time to panic over receipts and reports, you’ll start making decisions with confidence. You’ll know:
If you’re on track or off course
When to save, spend, or cut back
How your business is actually performing — not just how it feels
And if your bookkeeper can’t or won’t answer these questions clearly?
It might be time to upgrade.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be a financial expert to understand your books.
You just need the right guide — and the right questions.
At BalanceKeep Bookkeeping, I don’t just give you clean books. I help you understand what they mean — so you can run your business like a CEO, not just a busy owner.
🗓 Ready to Stop Guessing and Start Leading?
Book a free 15-minute call and let’s look at your numbers together — no pressure, no jargon.
Joel Ramos
Founder, Accountant, Bookkeeper, & Small Business Advocate
BalanceKeep Bookkeeping
