Year-End Reminder: Review Your Outstanding Invoices

As the year comes to a close, it’s easy to focus on wrapping up client work, planning for the new year, or taking a well-earned break. But before you log off for the holidays, there’s one simple step that can make a real difference in how you start next year.

Review your outstanding invoices and follow up on any unpaid balances.

This quick review can improve your cash flow, help you close the books cleanly, and ensure you’re not leaving money on the table as you head into a new year.

Why It’s Worth Doing Now

Many small business owners put off checking on unpaid invoices because they don’t want to feel “pushy.” But this isn’t about chasing people down; it’s about closing the loop on the work you’ve already delivered.

By reviewing your invoices now, you can:

• Make sure all services completed this year have been invoiced

• Send friendly reminders before clients disappear for the holidays

• Clean up your accounts receivable for a more accurate year-end snapshot

• Enter the new year with stronger cash flow and a clear financial picture

How to Review Your Invoices

1. Run an A/R (Accounts Receivable) Report

• If you use QuickBooks Online or another bookkeeping system, run a report of all open invoices.

• Look for anything past due or unpaid.

2. Double-Check Your Records

• Make sure all completed projects have been invoiced.

• If you took partial payments or deposits, confirm those are recorded correctly.

3. Send a Friendly Reminder

• A short, polite email goes a long way.

4. Decide on Any Write-Offs

• If you’ve made every effort to collect and know a payment won’t come through, flag it for discussion with your accountant before year-end.

5. Set a Process for the New Year

• Going forward, use automated invoice reminders or review your payment terms to keep things on track.

A Small Step with a Big Impact

Clearing up your outstanding invoices now gives you a clean, accurate picture of your income for the year — and helps ensure you’re not carrying unpaid balances into January. It frees up your mental space. There’s something deeply satisfying about closing the books on a year knowing your payments are current, your reports are accurate, and your business is truly ready for what’s next.