Introduction
Cash flow management is critical when it comes to the success and sustainability of a law firm. The simple truth is that insufficient cash flow affects a firm’s inability to cover expenses, invest in growth and weather unforeseen challenges.
Here are 10 cash flow optimization tips.
1- Check Your Firm’s Financial Health
As cliche, as it may sound, it’s best to start at the very beginning. In this case, law firms should start by analyzing their finances and doing a cash flow projection. Understanding fixed and variable expenses is vital for cash flow optimization as it allows you to negotiate payment dates with service providers and accurately predict expenses.
To learn more about Revenue And Expense Tracking For Law Firms read our article here.
2- Establish a Cash Flow Forecast
In order to successfully monitor income receivables and identify revenue sources firms require a cash flow forecast. This will assist in managing cash flow during a period of crisis and track your previous cash flow over a period of time to get a baseline. Using management software like Sage streamlines this process.
To learn more about Factors To Consider When Choosing Accounting Software For Your Law Firm click here.
3- Time Tracking Optimization
As the saying goes, time is money. Using technology to automate time tracking could save you money as cash flow software ensures accurate billing and assists law firms with fixed-fee projects.
To learn more about Law Firm Accounting And How To Track KPIs For Lawyers click here.
4- Facilitate Client Payments
One of the techniques to optimize cash flow is offering clients various payment methods, as people are willing to pay for convenience. Accepting credit cards speeds up payment cycles. It is also in a law firm’s best interest to streamline invoicing and collections.
5- Accelerate Invoicing
Another technique to optimize cash flow that is often overlooked is prompt invoicing. Offering incentives like a discount for swift payment is a good way to reward your clients and goes a long way towards creating a culture of invoicing accountability.
6- Follow Up on Unpaid Invoices
Cash flow optimization requires being proactive and following up on unpaid invoices. It is essential to regularly review accounts receivable and establish a collection system. Offering payment plans assists in ensuring a steady cash flow and helps both the law firm and the client the opportunity to plan ahead.
7- Avoid Surprise Billing
It is important to be upfront with clients at all times and brief them on any unexpected expenses which may arise. Being open and honest reduces the likelihood of unhappy clients and write-offs to bad debt.
8- Timely Bill Payments
While getting paid on time is important, so too is paying on time. Ensuring that all law firm bills are paid on time prevents late payment penalties and ensures that the firm’s accounts are all in good standing. An underrated tip is to not pay bills too early as this helps preserve cash flow.
9- Create a Cash Reserve
Having a cash reserve is high on the list of techniques to optimize cash flow. It is ideal to have three months of expense payments available in cash. This provides a safety net for slumps and downturns. In addition, securing a line of credit for extra security is great for managing cash flow during a period of crisis.
10- Cash Flow KPIs
Cash flow optimization requires that a law firm strictly defines its Key performance indicators (KPI). KPIs in terms of cash flow include days outstanding and any working capital changes. It is paramount to continuously review your KPIs to stay on track. Accounting software with automated reporting features makes this a fairly simple task.
To learn more about KPIS for cash flow management click here.
Why Choose Sage Software For Your Law Firm
When it comes to managing cash flow during a period of crisis or just keeping track on a daily basis Sage has garnered an excellent reputation. The cloud-based software features an in-depth reporting function which assists in efficiently tracking and managing financials and cash flow. In addition, the software is both scalable and customizable and requires no downloads or installations.
To learn more about Sage Accounting Software for Law Firm financial management click here.
Why Outsourcing Is A Great Solution For Law Firms
Overworked lawyers should not have to focus on techniques to optimize cash flows. Financial management is time-consuming and requires a specialized set of skills. Outsourcing means that law firms do not have to upskill, instead they can get instant access to software experts and accountants.
Conclusion
Cash flow management is an important aspect of growing and running a law firm as well as managing cash flow during a period of crisis. Things to consider include short-term solutions such as asset liquidation, government assistance and a line of credit. The above 10 strategies are optimized to ensure stability, growth, and a positive client-centered experience.
Why Choose Lescault And Walderman As Your Law Firms Provider
LWI is a fully certified Premier partner with Sage providing accounting, bookkeeping and CFO Services. Outsourcing allows law firms to gain reliable accounting services from a firm which places emphasis on cost reduction, fraud risk mitigation, and increased focus on core functions. LWI has more than 30 accountants across 18 states with decades of combined business consulting service experience.
Packages can be tailored to the law firm’s needs and streamlined processes optimize time.
For more articles that help law firms see the below
Technology Challenges Facing The Legal Sector In 2023
Law Firms: Managing Client Trust / IOLTA Accounts
How human error and manual accounting data entry are costing your law firm
The Top 5 Ways CFO Services Can Help Increase Your Law Firm’s Bottom Line
Stay in the loop
