5 Cash Red Flags: Does Your Business Need an Intervention?
Cash is the heart of your business.
It doesn’t matter how much revenue you have on paper—if more cash is going out than coming in, it quickly becomes difficult to keep things running smoothly.
The good news? These red flags are often easy to spot—if you know what to look for.
In this post, we’ll break down some of the most common signs that your business is experiencing cash problems—so you can catch the issues early and make smart, strategic changes before things spiral out of hand.
Your Business is Profitable, but You’re Low on Cash
Your Profit & Loss Statement shows your business is profitable—but your bank account tells a different story.
This usually signals a disconnect between profitability and cash flow, often caused by delayed receivables, high overhead, or unpredictable expenses.
Red Flags to Watch For:
Regularly dipping into personal savings to cover payroll or expenses
Waiting (impatiently) for clients to pay outstanding invoices
2. You Are Clueless on What’s Coming In or Going Out
If you don’t have a clear picture of what’s coming in or going out, you’re flying blind.
This lack of visibility can lead to surprise shortfalls, missed opportunities and constant second guessing.
Red Flags to Watch For:
Making business decisions based on your bank balance
No weekly or monthly cash flow forecast
3. You’re Always in Feast-or-Famine Mode
Big income months followed by long dry spells? It’s a common cycle—especially in project-based or seasonal businesses.
Often referred to as the “Feast or Famine Cycle,” this pattern becomes exhausting and unsustainable without intentional planning.
Red Flags to Watch For:
Sudden slow periods with no financial cushion
Constant worry about making payroll during low-income months
4. Your Business Is Growing, But So Are Your Headaches
Business growth is exciting—but it also brings new layers of financial complexity.
Hiring, taking on more clients, and expanding operations all come with added expenses. Without a solid cash flow system in place, growth can feel more chaotic than rewarding.
Red Flags to Watch For:
No clear budget for hiring or new investments
Feeling busier than ever—but not seeing the financial payoff
5. You’re Losing Sleep Over Money Decisions
If cash flow stress has you lying awake at night, worried about making payroll or investing in the next step of your business, it’s a sign that your finances need more structure and support.
Red Flags to Watch For:
Constant stress or anxiety about your business finances
Feeling paralyzed when it’s time to decide where to cut, spend, or invest
Does Your Business Need an Intervention?
If any of these signs feel familiar, know that you’re not alone.
Cash flow challenges are common, especially in service-based and growing businesses.
The important thing is recognizing the patterns and making space to understand what’s really happening with your money.
Whether you start with a simple forecast, update your billing terms, or just begin tracking your cash flow week to week—small, intentional steps can lead to more confidence, clarity, and control in your business finances.
Need Help Getting Started?
The Accountant’s Palette helps service-based small businesses simplify their finances, reduce stress, and gain clarity around their cash flow.
If this post hit close to home, we’d love to talk through your questions and help you explore your next steps.
👉 Schedule a Free Consultation to speak with a CPA who understands the challenges of running a modern small business.
