Navigating Director Disqualification Insights from Tom Fox Head of Insolvency at Umbrella.UK Insolvency
25th January 2024Why HMRC Takes Priority Among Creditors – Insights for Business Owners
26th March 2024
Cash flow issues can impact any company, regardless of its profitability. Despite business operations seemingly going well, with customer orders increasing, it’s often challenging to recognise the severity of a company’s situation resulting from poor cash flow.
Tom Fox, Head of Insolvency at Umbrella.UK Insolvency gives his insights:
“While poor cash flow doesn’t necessarily spell the end for a business, it does create vulnerability, making even minor downturns potentially disastrous. To safeguard against such risks, understanding the factors contributing to cash flow issues is crucial. Seeking assistance from insolvency experts is recommended, as their expertise can identify cash drains and propose swift solutions to prevent insolvency without exorbitant costs.”
To address poor cash flow at an early stage, consider the following strategic options:
1. Cash Flow Forecasting
Utilise cash flow forecasts to anticipate future cash levels, highlighting potential shortfalls. This proactive approach enables timely sourcing or saving of finances, preventing late payments to creditors.
2. Debtor Organisation
Implement credit control procedures for consistent payment follow-ups, ensuring a steady cash inflow. Distributing invoices throughout the month, as opposed to a bulk at month-end, can also expedite payments.
3. Cost Management
Identify and cut unnecessary costs to improve the company’s cash flow position. Streamlining operations alongside other strategies ensures a consistent working capital.
4. Market Expansion
Explore new target markets within the current industry or consider diversifying into other markets for additional revenue streams. This is a long-term solution best implemented after compiling a cash flow forecast.
5. Creditor Negotiation
Engage in open communication with creditors to negotiate reduced monthly payments. Clear communication helps maintain reliability and may provide the breathing space needed.
6. Funding Sources
Seek additional funds tailored to the company’s circumstances. Whether through flexible income injections, invoice financing, or borrowing against assets, funding should align with the business’s cash flow forecast.
7. Time to Pay (TTP) Arrangements with HMRC
If facing challenges with HM Revenue and Customs, explore Time to Pay arrangements to spread payments over a manageable period, preventing the initiation of winding-up proceedings.
8. Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA)
For companies facing insolvency but deemed viable post-financial difficulties, consider Company Voluntary Arrangements (CVA). Overseen by an Insolvency Practitioner, this approach consolidates debts into manageable monthly payments, allowing the director to retain control and continue trading.
In conclusion, grasping the intricacies of cash flow issues and embracing a proactive approach can help companies navigate through challenging financial situations. For personalised advice tailored to your company contact us today.