Five smart moves to get your small business financially fit at EOFY

Five smart moves to get your small business financially fit at EOFY

By Alex Molloy (pictured), Co-Founder of Valiant Finance

 

EOFY is less than 10 days away. As the End of Financial Year (EOFY) looms, many small and medium businesses (SMBs) are bracing for the usual scramble, reconciling accounts, sorting through deductions, and trying to wrap up the year on a strong note. But EOFY doesn’t need to be stressful. In fact, with the right strategies, it can be an opportunity to optimise operations, improve cash flow, and set a clear course for growth in the year ahead.

At Valiant Finance, we work with thousands of SMBs across Australia to help them simplify their financial processes and secure fast, tailored funding. This time of year offers more than just a chance to tidy up, it’s also a moment to re-strategise and position your business for long-term success. Here are five EOFY priorities every small business should consider before 30 June.

1. Review and reconcile your finances

EOFY is the perfect time to get your books in order. Reconciling your accounts ensures that every transaction is accurately recorded helps ensure your tax return is correct and uncovers potential areas for saving. It’s not just about compliance; it’s about clarity. Clear financial records enable better decision-making and reduce the risk of audits.

There’s also a new wrinkle this year: changes to how the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) manages small business debt come into effect on 1 July. Under these new rules, the ATO may more actively disclose tax debts to credit reporting bureaus if they exceed certain thresholds and remain unpaid. This could affect a business’s credit rating and future ability to borrow.

If your business is carrying ATO debt, now is the time to prioritise repayment or explore refinancing options. Consolidating or restructuring your obligations before the end of June may help you avoid future complications and enter FY26 on a cleaner slate.

2. Maximise your deductions

The EOFY is also a chance to ensure you’re not leaving money on the table. Many SMBs miss out on valuable tax deductions simply because they haven’t kept thorough records or aren’t aware of what they can claim. From vehicle and travel expenses to tools, machinery, and even some forms of marketing, a wide range of costs may be deductible.

It’s essential to work closely with your accountant or tax advisor to review your expenses and maximise your claim. If you’ve made purchases that directly contribute to your business operations, you may be able to offset them against your taxable income. The difference can be substantial especially for businesses operating on tight margins.

3. Consider strategic asset purchases

Do you need to upgrade your equipment, invest in new vehicles, or acquire new technology? Making those purchases before 30 June can have financial advantages especially if you’re eligible for the instant asset write-off.

While thresholds and eligibility criteria for the instant asset write-off have fluctuated in recent years, this tax benefit can allow SMBs to immediately deduct the cost of certain assets rather than depreciating them over time. This can reduce your taxable income and improve your cash flow position heading into the new year.

If a large purchase is on your radar and you have the means or access to funding, acting before EOFY could result in significant tax relief. But make sure to double-check eligibility with your accountant and consider the long-term ROI of any major investment.

4. Boost your cash flow

Even profitable businesses can run into cash flow challenges especially around EOFY, when expenses stack up and customer payments may slow down. Rather than draining your reserves or falling behind on obligations, now is a good time to explore flexible funding options.

Business loans, lines of credit, and invoice financing are all tools that can provide a liquidity buffer, helping you navigate this period without stress.

At Valiant, we work with more than 80 lenders to find finance solutions that suit each business’s unique needs and cash flow patterns.

5. Boost your super to cut tax and build your future

Make additional superannuation contributions before 30 June to reduce your taxable income while securing your retirement. Concessional contributions are taxed at just 15% versus your marginal tax rate.

For example, if you’re earning $100,000+, additional super contributions can deliver immediate tax savings while building long-term wealth. Speak to your accountant about maximising your contribution limits. This one you’ll need to take action on ASAP because it takes time for funds to clear, you don’t want to miss the deadline.

EOFY can be a natural pinch point, but it doesn’t have to be a crisis. With the right funding in place, you can cover immediate costs, take advantage of tax-time purchases, and maintain operational momentum while planning for FY26. If you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve, this guide on how to prepare for EOFY as an SME covers everything you need to know.