Notes on running a business.
Practical guidance on cash flow, accounting, and the decisions that come with running a business.
Articles — Page 16
Tax Planning Strategies for Service Businesses
Tax planning for service businesses means proactively managing entity structure, deductions, retirement contributions, and timing decisions to reduce what you owe — year-round, not just at filing time. This guide covers the strategies that matter most for founders and operators in 2025 and 2026.
How to Build a Finance Function That Scales With Your Startup (2026 Guide)
Learn how to build a scalable finance function for your startup that grows from basic bookkeeping to strategic financial leadership. Includes hiring roadmap, systems setup, and when to bring functions in-house.
Contractor vs Employee Costs for Agencies: True Total Cost Analysis (2026)
Hiring an employee typically costs 25-40% more than a contractor when you include all expenses. Here's the complete cost breakdown and decision framework for agency owners.
How to Read a P&L Statement as a Founder (2026 Guide)
Learn how to read and analyze your P&L statement like a pro. This founder's guide breaks down revenue, expenses, and margins with real examples from agencies and startups.
Quarterly Tax Estimates: A Small Business Guide
Quarterly estimated taxes are pay-as-you-go federal tax payments due four times a year. This guide covers who must pay, 2026 deadlines, how to calculate your amount, safe harbor rules, and how to avoid underpayment penalties.
Chart of Accounts for Marketing Agencies: Complete Setup Guide (2026)
A comprehensive guide to setting up a chart of accounts specifically designed for marketing agencies, including templates, best practices, and common account structures that improve financial visibility and client profitability tracking.
Startup Runway Planning: How to Calculate and Extend Your Cash Runway (2026 Guide)
Learn how to calculate your startup's runway, manage burn rate effectively, and extend your cash runway with proven strategies. Essential financial planning for founders.
How to Calculate Agency Project Margins
Calculate agency delivery margin with a worked example. Separate service fees, staff and contractor costs, overhead, and the cost of scope changes.
FAQ
Before we talk.
A few practical details, so you know what to expect.
Where can I see an example of Laya’s monthly reporting?
Which plans include monthly accounting?
How should I use the examples and calculators?
Start with a conversation
Tell us what
you’re building.
We’ll talk through your business, your books, and where you could use a hand.