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The Business Loan Store

Practical worksheet

Cash flow forecast template

Record when money is expected to arrive and when payments actually fall due.

Last reviewed 2 October 2026

Before you start

Use the same period length throughout, such as weeks or months. Enter cash when it is likely to clear, not when you issue an invoice. Reforecast regularly.

Why use this?

Record when money is expected to arrive and when payments actually fall due.

When should I use it?

Use it when planning a decision, then update it as actual figures become available.

What will it tell me?

It makes your assumptions visible so you can compare your plan with what happens in the business.

Work through the steps

Each prompt explains what to enter. The example is a guide, not a target for your business.

Choose the dates and write the cleared bank balance at the start. Keep tax savings or restricted funds separate.

Example: week starting 5 October; opening operating cash $12,000.

List each customer receipt by likely payment date, plus other cash in. Separate confirmed from uncertain receipts.

Invoice A $8,000 due Wednesday; card sales forecast $3,000 Friday.

List payroll, suppliers, rent, tax, loan repayments and other payments on their expected dates.

Payroll $6,500 Thursday; supplier $4,000 Friday; BAS on its actual due date.

For each period: opening cash + expected receipts − expected payments. Carry the closing balance into the next period.

$12,000 + $11,000 − $10,500 = $12,500 closing cash.

Move a large receipt later or add a plausible unexpected cost. Note the lowest balance and when it occurs.

If Invoice A arrives two weeks late, can payroll and suppliers still be paid?

Record who will chase invoices, negotiate payment dates, cut discretionary spend or seek professional help, and when the forecast will be refreshed.

Owner calls two overdue customers Monday; bookkeeper updates actuals each Friday.

Your entries remain on this device. The site does not upload or save them.

This worksheet is general planning information. Ask a qualified accountant, tax agent or lawyer where your decision needs specialist advice.

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