Field note / October 23, 2026

Record what supports the answer.

A preparation review is more useful when each answer has a basis. “Our records are current” and “Our bookkeeper reconciled the last month” describe different levels of confidence. The workbook helps you keep that distinction visible.

Use a reference, not an upload

For each area, note where supporting information is held and what still needs checking. A reference such as “monthly reporting folder, review with bookkeeper” can be enough. Do not paste bank statements, customer identities, employee records or patient information into this workbook.

A useful reference has a source, a period and a person who can explain it. If one is missing, record the gap. Marking something unknown is progress when it prevents an unsupported assumption from becoming a decision.

Keep the records consistent

The U.S. Small Business Administration explains that bookkeeping and basic financial understanding support business management, including balance sheets and day-to-day accounting responsibilities. This is a reason to involve the person who maintains the books before treating a summary as settled. Read SBA guidance on managing business finances.

In your own records, check that reports cover the same period and that an advisor can understand how a figure was prepared. Questions about accounting treatment, legal obligations or retention periods belong with qualified professionals.

Separate a record from a conclusion

A documented process does not prove the team can run it without the owner. A completed task does not prove a business is ready for sale. Add an action to check the practical result: walk through the process with the person responsible, resolve an open reconciliation or ask an advisor to review a question.

Start with one preparation area: what do you know, what supports it and what needs to happen next?

Share intentionally

Your workbook is local unless you explicitly send a selected aggregate summary through the inquiry form. Exported backups include notes, so protect them like other internal working documents. Choose a secure, agreed method with your advisor before sharing actual business records.

Turn an evidence gap into a 90-day action, or open the preparation workbook.