January is a natural reset point for many business owners. After a busy end to the year, the break often brings space to think about the bigger picture. That makes the start of the calendar year one of the best times to get ahead with your tax and financial planning.
Planning early in the year, rather than waiting for the End of Financial Year, gives you clarity, improves cash flow, and positions your business for a stronger, more strategic 2026.
We all know the EOFY crunch. Businesses race through receipts, try to make last-minute deductible purchases, or rush decisions that should have been planned months earlier. It’s reactive and rarely leads to the best financial outcomes.
By taking a strategic approach in January, you give yourself room to think clearly about:
This proactive mindset puts you in control for the entire year, rather than scrambling in June.
A lot may have changed since you last reviewed your tax planning. Growth, new staff, wage increases, price adjustments, or new revenue streams can all shift your tax profile.
By reviewing your numbers early in the year, you can:
Strong planning in January means better cash flow and more confidence throughout the year.
If your business has sold property, shares, equipment or any other capital asset this year, you don’t need to wait until June to start thinking about capital gains tax.
Starting early means you can explore options to reduce your liability, such as:
The earlier you plan, the more options you have.
The FBT year ends 31 March, so a January review gives you the perfect window to adjust salary packaging or employee benefit programs. You’ll have time to optimise arrangements, avoid unnecessary FBT, and support your team with tax-effective benefits.
It’s a quick win that can deliver real value before reporting time arrives.
The start of the year is also a great time to consider expansion, equipment upgrades, or gearing strategies. When you plan these decisions early, you can factor in tax implications, financing options, and potential cash-flow impacts without the pressure of EOFY deadlines.
Strong businesses start the year with a strong plan. Beginning your tax and financial planning in January gives you clarity, time and confidence to make better decisions all the way through to 30 June.
At Cutcher & Neale, we work with business owners to build proactive strategies that provide comfort and clarity year round – so when EOFY arrives, you’re already ahead.
Speak to a trusted advisor today by calling 1800 988 522 or visiting cutcher.com.au/contact