Record-Keeping Help for Small Businesses
Getting your records right from the start can save time, money, and headaches down the track.
Over the past few weeks, we’ve explored the importance of business record keeping — from what records you need, to the benefits of staying organised, and the risks of getting it wrong. If you missed our earlier posts, be sure to check them out, including our guide to the ATO Record Keeping Evaluation Tool, which we’ll be looking at more closely today.
This week, we’re shifting the focus slightly to provide practical help for small businesses when it comes to setting up and managing business records. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your current systems, there’s support available — and it pays to get it right early.
Where to Start
Setting up your business records can feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions will help you get on the right track:
Will you manage your records yourself or use a registered BAS or tax agent?
What business activities need to be tracked? For example:
Processing cash and electronic payments
Issuing invoices and paying bills
Paying wages and super
Lodging BAS and tax returns
Preparing financial reports
How often will you need to report to the ATO?
What tools or software are best suited to your needs?
Using a Registered BAS or Tax Agent
A registered BAS or tax agent can help you manage all or part of your business’s record keeping and compliance. Even if you use a professional, you’ll likely still need to maintain basic records — so it’s important that your systems work well together.
Top tips when working with an agent:
Ask which record-keeping system is compatible with theirs.
Understand what services are included and how much they’ll cost.
Confirm their registration via the Tax Practitioners Board website.
👤 Jennifer Van De Wouw at NBK Services Pty Ltd is a Registered BAS Agent – Agent Number 26013132.
Other Sources of Support
There are also several free and low-cost resources available to small businesses, including:
Business.gov.au
Business Enterprise Centres Australia
ATO’s Record Keeping for Business Index
These resources offer guidance, tools, and workshops to help you stay compliant.
Try the ATO’s Record Keeping Evaluation Tool
The Record Keeping Evaluation Tool from the ATO is a free, easy-to-use online questionnaire that assesses how well you’re managing your business records.
Use this tool if you:
Run a business or are responsible for its records
Are a bookkeeper, BAS agent, or tax agent
Are thinking about starting a business
⚠️ Note: This tool is not designed for super funds, non-profits, or government agencies.
⏱️ It takes around 5–10 minutes and provides a helpful report outlining your current record-keeping performance.
👉 Access the ATO Record Keeping Evaluation Tool
How NBK Services Pty Ltd Can Support You
At NBK Services Pty Ltd, we know that managing records and staying ATO-compliant can be daunting. We’re here to make it easier.
Our services include:
Setting up efficient, ATO-compliant record keeping systems
Guidance on required documentation and business reporting
Help with claiming the right expenses
Audit preparation and support
Assistance using ATO tools like the Record Keeping Evaluation Tool
Tailored advice for your specific business type or industry
Whether you’re a sole trader, startup or an established business, we can help you stay organised and stress-free.
📩 Contact us today to find out how we can support your business.
👉 Contact Us – NBK Services Pty Ltd https://nbkservices.com.au/
What Would You Like to Know More About?
We want our blog to be useful and relevant to you. If there’s a topic, you’d like us to explore — whether it's payroll, GST, compliance, or business systems — let us know!
💬 Drop us a message or leave a comment with your suggestions.
👉 Contact Us – NBK Services Pty Ltd https://nbkservices.com.au/
