7 Key Metrics Every Business Should Track Before Year-End

As the year wraps up, many business owners feel the pressure to make quick financial decisions—without the clarity they need to do it confidently. That’s where metrics come in. Tracking the right numbers ahead of year-end helps you understand where you stand, avoid costly mistakes, and set a stronger foundation for the year ahead.

Here are seven key metrics every business should have on their radar before closing the books.

1. Cash Flow Position

Cash is the lifeblood of your business. Understanding your inflows and outflows helps you know whether you can cover year-end expenses, invest in opportunities, or need to conserve cash.

2. Accounts Receivable Aging

Uncollected invoices can derail cash flow quickly. Reviewing your receivables shows where money is stuck and gives you time to follow up before the year ends.

3. Accounts Payable

On the flip side, knowing what you owe—and when—prevents late fees and keeps vendor relationships strong. It also helps you decide whether to accelerate or delay payments for tax planning.

4. Budget vs. Actuals

Comparing your budget to your actual performance reveals overspending, under-investing, and areas where adjustments are needed. It’s one of the clearest ways to assess how disciplined your financial management has been.

5. Gross Margin

Your gross margin shows how efficiently you’re turning revenue into profit after direct costs. Tracking it ahead of year-end highlights whether pricing or cost issues are cutting into profitability.

6. Tax Liability Forecast

Don’t wait until filing season to estimate taxes. Forecasting your liability before year-end gives you time to plan deductions, make investments, or adjust payroll to minimize surprises.

7. Runway and Reserves

How many months of expenses can your business cover with current cash reserves? Your runway metric is especially important if you’re heading into a slower season or planning to scale in the new year.

Putting It All Together

Year-end planning isn’t about scrambling—it’s about having the right information at your fingertips. By focusing on these seven metrics, business owners can finish the year with clarity and position their business for smarter decisions in the new year.

Want help tracking the numbers that actually matter? Visit decimal.com to connect with a Decimal professional and get year-end support that sets you up for success.