Splitting takings into three accounts, without the spreadsheet
Operating, tax, and owner pay — three pots that stop everything living in one tempting balance.
One business account makes every balance look spendable. It is not.
Open or designate three pots: Operating (rent, stock, wages, tools), Tax reserve, and Owner pay. Percentages depend on your margins, but many owners start with something like 50 / 25 / 25 and adjust after a month of real numbers.
Move money on a fixed day — for example every Friday — rather than whenever you remember. Consistency beats precision.
If Operating runs short, that is useful information. It means costs are high relative to takings, or Tax/Owner moves are too aggressive. Adjust the split; do not raid Tax.
You do not need fancy software for this. Standing transfers and clear account names are enough to change behaviour.
