Starting a new startup is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming. There are so many things to do, and it’s easy to overlook the importance of good accounting. However, making mistakes in your startup’s accounting can have serious consequences, such as:

* Getting audited by the regulators 

* Missing out on tax deductions

* Failing to secure funding

* Damaging your business reputation

* Bad operating decisions

Here are 10 common mistakes that startup founders make when it comes to accounting:

1. **Not hiring an accounting professional.** Many startup founders try to handle their own accounting, but this is a mistake. Accounting is a complex and time-consuming task, and it’s important to have an expert who can help you get it right. An accountant can help you set up your accounting system, track your finances, and file your taxes correctly.
   
   
2. **Not investing in accounting software.** There are a number of great accounting software programs available that can make your life much easier. These programs can help you track your income and expenses, create invoices, and generate financial reports.
   
   
3. **Using personal accounts for the business.** This is a big no-no. It’s important to keep your personal and business finances separate. This will make it easier to track your business expenses and income, and it will also protect your personal assets in case your business fails.
   
   
4. **Not documenting business expenses clearly and concisely.** When you’re spending money on behalf of your business, it’s important to keep good records. This includes keeping receipts, invoices, and other documentation. This will help you track your expenses and make sure you’re deducting them correctly on your taxes.
   
   
5. **Using cash based over accrual based accounting.** Cash-based accounting is a simple system where you only record transactions when cash changes hands. Accrual-based accounting is more complex, but it provides a more accurate picture of your financial performance. If you’re growing your business, it’s important to use accrual-based accounting.
   
   
6. **Failing to do monthly bank reconciliation consistently.** Bank reconciliation is the process of comparing your bank statement to your accounting records to make sure they match. This is an important step to ensure the accuracy of your finances.
   
   
7. **Not separating the records of two or more bank accounts in the accounting system.** If you have multiple bank accounts, it’s important to keep separate records for each account in your accounting system. This will help you track your finances more accurately and avoid making mistakes.
   
   
8. **Not updating the books in a timely manner.** It’s important to update your accounting records regularly. This will help you avoid making mistakes and ensure that you have accurate financial information.
   
   
9. **Recognizing revenue too early.** This is a common mistake that can lead to financial problems. Revenue should only be recognized when it is earned, not when it is received.
   
   
10. **Founders not regularly conducting a review with their financials.** It’s important for founders to regularly review their financials. This will help them identify any problems early on and take corrective action.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can help ensure that your startup’s accounting is accurate and efficient. This will give you peace of mind and help you make better business decisions.

Here are some additional tips for startup founders who want to improve their accounting practices:

* Get organized. Set up a system for tracking your income and expenses, and keep all of your financial documents in one place.

* Automate as much as possible. There are a number of accounting software programs that can help you automate tasks, such as invoicing and bill paying.

* Delegate. If you don’t have the time or expertise to handle your own accounting, hire a bookkeeper or accountant to help you.

* Get help when you need it. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from an accountant or financial advisor if you have questions or need guidance.

By following these tips, you can improve your startup’s accounting practices and avoid making costly mistakes.