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Cash flow forecast calculator
Put in what comes in and goes out each month, plus one big payment, to see your bank balance month by month and the lowest point.
A cash flow forecast lists the money you expect in and out each month, starting from today's bank balance, to show when you might run short. Include big one-off bills such as tax, insurance and vehicle payments, and allow for customers paying late.
You stay above zero. Aim to keep one to three months of costs in the bank as a buffer.
| Month | In | Out | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $12,000 | $10,500 | $6,500 |
| 2 | $12,000 | $10,500 | $8,000 |
| 3 | $12,000 | $10,500 | $9,500 |
| 4 | $12,000 | $16,500 | $5,000 |
| 5 | $12,000 | $10,500 | $6,500 |
| 6 | $12,000 | $10,500 | $8,000 |
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Start freeHow it works
Balance next month = balance this month + money in − money out
Use money that actually lands in the bank, not what you invoice: a job invoiced in March and paid in May is May's money. Put the big one-off costs in the month they leave, like a quarterly estimated tax payment or a van deposit.
Worked example
You start with $5,000, bring in $12,000 a month and spend $10,500. A $6,000 payment in month 4 takes you to your lowest point, $5,000 in month 4, and you finish month 6 with $8,000.
Questions
Why do contractors run out of cash?
Customers paying late, materials bought up front, tax bills and quiet months. A forecast shows the gap weeks before it arrives.
How far ahead should I forecast?
Three to six months. Further out, the numbers become guesses.
How much should I keep in the bank?
One to three months of costs is a common target, more if your work is seasonal.
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