November 2025 Reminders
November is the calm before the storm of year-end financial responsibilities. It’s a great time to catch up on any bookkeeping backlogs, assess your tax position, and prepare for the final sprint to closing out 2025. Getting organized this month means less stress and more control as deadlines approach. Here’s what small business owners should focus on in November:
Accounting and Tax Deadlines
State & Local Deadlines
- Double-check for any state or city tax filings, business license renewals, or other compliance obligations due in November.
- Ensure monthly payroll tax deposits are submitted on time to both state and federal authorities.
Sales Tax Filings
- Monthly and quarterly sales tax returns may be due depending on your filing schedule. Verify deadlines with your state agency.
Prepare for Year-End Filings
- Begin gathering documentation for W-2 and 1099 filings due in January.
- Confirm that you have W-9s on file for all contractors and correct addresses for employees.
Bookkeeping Recommendations
Close October’s Books & Reconcile Accounts
- Reconcile bank, credit card, and loan accounts.
- Review uncategorized transactions, resolve discrepancies, and clean up your general ledger.
- Make sure all invoices, bills, and payments are properly posted.
Assess Outstanding Invoices & Expenses
- Run Accounts Receivable and Payable aging reports.
- Follow up on unpaid invoices and plan vendor payments to avoid late fees.
Organize and Back Up Records
- Digitize and file important documents, such as receipts, contracts, and bank statements.
- Confirm your data backup system is current and secure.
- Archive completed projects or contracts for easy reference during tax season.
Review Payroll & Benefits
- Review year-to-date payroll reports and verify employee data.
- Ensure that bonuses or raises planned for December are budgeted.
- Review benefits enrollment and prepare for any changes or open enrollment deadlines.
Financial Planning & Strategy
Start Year-End Tax Planning
- Schedule a check-in with your accountant or tax preparer.
- Estimate your 2025 tax liability and determine if you should:
- Make additional business purchases.
- Contribute to a retirement plan.
- Adjust your final quarterly estimated tax payment.
- Make additional business purchases.
Evaluate Budget Performance
- Compare YTD performance against your 2025 budget.
- Reallocate resources to help you hit your year-end goals.
- Start drafting a 2026 budget based on current trends.
Plan for Holiday & Seasonal Spending
- Finalize plans for:
- Holiday marketing or sales promotions
- Seasonal hires or staffing adjustments
- Client and employee gifts or bonuses
- Holiday marketing or sales promotions
Prep for Annual Reports & Strategic Planning
- Start compiling data and documentation needed for annual financial reports.
- Outline goals, resource needs, and financial projections for Q1 2026.
Final Thoughts
November is all about preparation. The work you do this month will ease the burden of December and ensure you close the year on solid financial footing. Whether it’s tax prep, payroll review, or organizing your books, every task you complete now saves time later.
Want a smooth year-end? Reach out to VirtuCount Bookkeeping, Accounting, & Tax for support with financial clean-up, tax planning, and closing out 2025 the right way.