Can’t Make Payroll? You’re Not Alone—Here’s What to Do Next

Every small business owner hits a wall at some point—and for many, it’s payroll.

You check your bank account. It’s short. Payday’s tomorrow.
Now what?

It’s a gut-punch. And it’s more common than you think.

At DBR Bookkeeping, we’ve helped dozens of business owners navigate this exact situation. The good news? There are steps you can take right now to regain control and prevent it from happening again.

3 Practical Tips to Improve Payroll Cash Flow:

1. Forecast 30-60 Days Ahead
Use your bookkeeping software to project income and expenses for the next two months. Know what’s coming so you can plan for payroll before it’s urgent.

2. Implement Partial Prepayments
For service-based businesses, request 25–50% upfront deposits. It builds a cash buffer and helps you manage labor costs more predictably.

3. Automate & Review Weekly
Set up automated dashboards in QuickBooks Online to review your income, expenses, and cash balance every week—not just once a month.

These systems may not fix the immediate shortfall, but they lay the groundwork for long-term stability.

Still Worried About Missing Payroll?

It’s okay to admit you’re overwhelmed. Running a business isn’t easy. But hiding from the numbers only makes it worse.

If you’re in a tight spot:
– Contact employees directly—honesty goes further than avoidance.
– Look into short-term funding from your bank or a trusted lender.
– Consult with a bookkeeper to explore all options, including budget cuts, payment prioritization, and deduction timing.

You’re not the first business owner to be here—and you won’t be the last. But you don’t have to go through it alone.

Book a free call with Dr. Bryan Raya, QuickBooks ProAdvisor, and let’s build a game plan together:
https://calendly.com/dbr_bookkeeping/30-minute-zoom-consultation-call

Let’s start Doing Business Right.

FAQ: Payroll and Cash Flow Challenges

What can I do if I can’t make payroll?
Communicate early, explore emergency funding, and work with a bookkeeper to adjust cash flow and expenses.

How do I know if I can afford my next payroll?
Use a 30-day forecast and track cash in/out weekly to stay ahead of payroll needs.

Is it legal to delay payroll?
Most states require timely payment. Delays can lead to fines—check your local labor laws.

Can QuickBooks help me manage payroll cash flow?
Yes. QuickBooks Online can generate reports to help forecast payroll obligations and monitor expenses.

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