One area where most small-business owners can improve their cash flow is in billings and collections. A thorough credit check before you offer payment terms is not enough. Here are six best practices that can make a real difference in your cash balance at the end of every month.

1. Get it right.

One legitimate reason for nonpayment is a confusing or inaccurate invoice. Make sure your invoices spell out in clear, plain English what was purchased, the price, the payment terms (or when payment is due), the customer’s PO number, when it was shipped, to where it was shipped, and any tracking number. Read More