Year-End Admin Checklist: What Every Small Business Should Do Before December 31st

As the calendar year winds down, small business owners across Brunswick County and the surrounding areas should be turning their attention to more than just holiday plans. The final weeks of the year are a crucial time to get organized, close out key tasks, and set the stage for a more successful, less stressful year ahead.

At Powers Professional Administrative Services, we work closely with small businesses in Leland, Wilmington, Southport, and throughout Brunswick County to help them wrap up the year with clarity and confidence. Here’s a practical year-end admin checklist to keep your operations in order before January arrives.

1. Review Your Financials

Go through your income, expenses, and financial reports. Make sure everything is up to date and accurately categorized. This is the time to:

• Reconcile bank accounts

• Confirm that all invoices are paid or followed up on

• Double-check outstanding bills or recurring subscriptions

Solid financial records will make tax preparation much easier and can uncover opportunities for savings or end-of-year deductions.

2. Prepare for Tax Season Early

Working ahead of deadlines gives you peace of mind. Review and update:

• W-9 forms for contractors

• Employee payroll and tax documents

• Year-to-date summaries

Make sure your bookkeeping software or spreadsheets are in order. If you're working with a tax preparer, gather the documents they’ll need now, so you’re not scrambling later.

3. Organize Your Digital and Physical Files

Messy files can cause delays, stress, and missed details. Use this time to:

• Clean out your inbox

• Archive or delete outdated digital documents

• Shred old paper files you no longer need

• Make sure all critical files are backed up and easy to find

A clean, organized workspace makes a big difference for your mindset and productivity.

4. Evaluate Your Systems and Workflows

Have you been constantly fixing problems or repeating the same mistakes? If your admin systems aren't working, they may be holding you back. Ask yourself:

• Are my current processes efficient?

• Is it clear who handles what?

• Do I have any recurring bottlenecks or missed tasks?

Now is the perfect time to identify what needs improvement and get support putting better systems in place.

5. Reflect on What Worked and What Didn’t

Take an honest look at your business operations. What went smoothly? What caused unnecessary stress? Set aside time to review your wins and pain points so you can make thoughtful changes in the new year.

If you’re not sure how to approach this, working with an administrative consultant can provide outside perspective and structure.

6. Set Up a Plan for the First Quarter

Starting strong in January begins with planning now. Outline your goals, deadlines, and responsibilities for Q1. Break larger projects into manageable steps and identify the support you’ll need.

Need Help Closing Out the Year?

At Powers Professional Administrative Services, we specialize in helping small businesses across Brunswick County and Southeastern North Carolina clean up their back office, streamline systems, and prepare for growth. Let’s simplify your year-end checklist and make next year your most organized yet.

Serving Leland, Wilmington, Southport, and surrounding areas717-579-7181powersadminsvcs.com