Free template
Free monthly close checklist for small business
Twenty-six steps in a sensible order, with a progress bar. Use it every month, and your books stay current instead of piling up.
What is inside
- Seven sections Cash and bank, income and customers, expenses and bills, payroll, taxes, balance sheet, and reports and close.
- A reason for each step One line on why the step matters, so a new helper knows what to look for.
- Done, date and notes Pick Yes, No or N/A. The progress cell counts the steps you have completed.
How to use it
- Choose the month you are closing at the top.
- Start with cash. Reconcile every bank account and card before anything else.
- Work down the list. Mark N/A for steps that do not apply, and add notes for anything unusual.
- Finish by saving the reports, setting the closing date in your software and sending the reports to whoever needs them.
Using it in Google Sheets
- Open Google Sheets and choose File, then Import, then Upload, and pick the downloaded file.
- Choose "Replace spreadsheet" or "Insert new sheet(s)".
- Check the formulas and the dropdown lists after the import. Most carry over, but Google Sheets handles a few functions and formats differently.
Things to watch
- Close on a schedule. Pick a day, such as the fifth business day, and keep it. A habit beats a heroic catch-up.
- Reconcile first. Every later check depends on the cash numbers being right.
- Lock the month. Setting a closing date in your accounting software stops accidental edits to numbers you have already reported.
- Ask about the judgment calls. Items like deposits received in advance and large purchases need your CPA's guidance on treatment.
Questions
What is a month-end close?
The set of steps you take after a month ends to make sure the books are complete and accurate: reconcile accounts, record what is missing, review the reports and lock the period.
How long should it take?
It depends on the size of the business and how current the books are. Keeping up during the month shortens it a great deal.
Does it work with QuickBooks and Xero?
Yes. The steps are the same in any accounting software. Use it alongside your own reports.
Can I use it in Google Sheets?
Yes. Upload the file to Google Sheets and check the dropdowns and the progress cell.
Want a fuller version with worked examples? See SOP Library in the store. This free template stays free either way.
Want more than a template? See Month-End Close Workbook.
Want every toolkit? The toolkit membership includes all of them, with a lower rate if you pay yearly.
Related: Year-end cleanup checklist, Are my books ready for taxes?, Monthly reporting, Bookkeeping guides, or all free templates.
These templates track your own numbers. They are not tax, legal or accounting advice, and MCC Solutions is not a CPA firm. Ask your CPA how rules apply to you.