Cash Flow Calculator
Calculate your cash flow from income and expenses. Track monthly, quarterly, or annual financial health with detailed breakdowns.
Calculate cash flow for this period
Money received from sales/services
Investments, interest, side income
Direct costs: materials, inventory
Electric, water, internet, phone
Office supplies, maintenance, etc.
Principal + interest payments
Income tax, sales tax, property tax
What is cash flow and why is it important?
Cash flow is the net amount of cash moving in and out of your business or personal finances over a period. Positive cash flow means more money coming in than going out - essential for paying bills, investing, and growth. Negative cash flow means you're spending more than earning, leading to debt.
What is the difference between cash flow and profit?
Profit is revenue minus expenses on paper (can include non-cash items like depreciation). Cash flow is actual money in/out. A business can be profitable but have negative cash flow (customers haven't paid yet) or unprofitable with positive cash flow (prepaid services). Cash flow pays bills; profit is accounting.
How do I improve my cash flow?
Increase income: raise prices, add income streams, invoice faster. Reduce expenses: cut unnecessary costs, negotiate bills, bulk purchases. Improve timing: get paid faster (early payment discounts), pay bills later (within terms), maintain cash reserves for emergencies.
What is operating vs investing vs financing cash flow?
Operating: day-to-day business (sales, expenses, payroll). Investing: buying/selling assets (equipment, property, investments). Financing: debt and equity (loans, investments, dividends). Positive operating cash flow is most important for sustainability.
How much cash reserve should I maintain?
Personal: 3-6 months of expenses for emergencies. Business: 3-12 months of operating expenses depending on industry volatility and cash flow cycle. Service businesses need less; inventory-heavy businesses need more. Seasonal businesses need larger reserves.