You work hard all year. You run jobs, manage crews, handle emergencies, and do your best to stay ahead. But when tax season rolls around, you get hit with a number that feels like a punch to the gut.

Here’s the reality: profit without planning equals pain.
Too many contractors make money on paper but fail to plan for the tax bill that follows. And when April hits, they’re blindsided — borrowing money, liquidating savings, or going on a payment plan with penalties and interest.

It doesn’t have to be that way.

Taxes are predictable. If you’re making profit, the IRS is going to want a piece. But with proper planning, you can stay ahead, minimize what you owe, and avoid the panic.

What’s the secret? Pay attention to taxes year-round — not just during tax season.

I worked with a contractor who had a record year — $280K in net profit. But he didn’t set aside anything for taxes. His bookkeeper was reconciling the books but not projecting liabilities. In March, he found out he owed $72K — and had $12K in the bank. The stress nearly broke him. We created a simple tax reserve system, automated monthly transfers, and met quarterly to review estimated payments. Now, tax time is boring — and predictable.

When you treat tax planning like a financial system, not a seasonal chore, you stay in control.

Want to avoid another surprise tax bill?

Pick up your free copy of my new book, “The 7 Minute Conversation-How to Hear the Story Your Small Business Financial Statements Are Telling You-CONTRACTOR EDITION”.  Go to www.7MinuteConversationBook.com

Ready to find out where your cash and profits are really going? Book your free 15-minute Profit and Cash Flow Call with me. No pressure. Just real clarity. I’ll help you see where your money’s hiding — and what to do about it. Schedule at www.CashFlowCallWithLarry.com