Good to Great: How to Scale With an Outsourced CFO

Your business structure can have enormous implications for your bottom line. From your taxes and exit strategy to your earnings and personal circumstances, your business structure will have a bearing on nearly every facet of your organisation. It’s important to note that the structure you started your business with may not suit what your current business has evolved into. It’s always good to consult with an adviser or ask yourself the following questions.

 

What is the right business structure for me?

No two businesses look the same, so your business structure needs to be personalised to your unique situation. Are you a sole proprietor or do you have a partnership? Is yours a family business? How will your business structure influence your personal finances (family circumstances, mortgage, retirement, etc.)?

How does my business structure protect my assets?

Asset protection should be an essential part of your business structure. Your business should have enough assets to cover its loans so the owners’ private assets are not at risk. If your assets are not protected, you could lose enormous sums of money when faced with a downturn or business crisis.

Your business structure should also ensure that assets aren’t controlled by the owner of the business. This is especially important in the face of bankruptcy, divorce, or other personal financial issues.

 

Does your business structure minimise capital gains?

Your business could be losing more money to capital gains than is necessary, and in the long run, these losses could mean you have less money for wages, marketing, cash flow, working capital, and other business necessities.

If your business structure makes capital gains, it can be useful if the business can access the discounts and concessions made possible by the CGT legislation. Some of these discounts and concessions include general discounts, the use of past capital losses, and CGT small business concessions. Check with your adviser to find out which options are viable for your company.

 

Does your business structure minimise administrative burden?

Some business structures are more complicated than others, and it’s important to find out if your administrative burden could be lessened. When you reduce your administrative burden, you’ll save money on salaries, consultants, accountants, and legal fees. These reductions can free up your funds for more proactive business pursuits like research and development, training, or marketing.

If you’re concerned your business structure could be losing you money, reach out to us. Our business experts are skilled at finding ways to help organisations keep more of their money instead of wasting it on ineffective structures and policies.

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