When does a small business need CFO or cash-flow advisory?
Turn reporting into decisions with a clearly defined advisory engagement.
Libro Lantern editorial · October 15, 2026 · Service-selection guidance
Begin with a decision
Identify what you are deciding: hiring, pricing, expansion, financing, or cash reserves. Ask what information would make that decision better.
Define the deliverables
Agree forecast frequency, assumptions, reporting format, meeting cadence, and who updates inputs. A forecast is a planning tool, not a guaranteed outcome.
Strengthen the foundation
Advisory work may require reliable monthly bookkeeping first. Ask the firm to distinguish cleanup, recurring reporting, and advisory fees.
This guide helps you prepare for a conversation. It is not individualized accounting, tax, legal, or regulatory advice. Confirm scope and qualifications directly with your professional.
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