Boost Your Small Business Cash Flow

Utilize accounting tools or cloud-based software to track incoming and outgoing transactions. Regular check-ins — weekly or monthly — help you spot issues early and plan. Monitor your accounts with M&T Online and Mobile Banking for Business for greater visibility into balances, deposits, and payments.

Review your expenses and trim what isn’t essential. Cancel unused subscriptions, renegotiate rent or insurance, and reduce overhead where possible. Every little bit frees up more cash.

The faster you get paid, the stronger your cash flow. Offer digital invoices, online payment options, and reminders. M&T’s Merchant Services allows you to securely accept card, mobile, and online payments — accelerating cash inflow while keeping transactions protected. For big projects, ask for deposits or stage payments instead of waiting until the end.

Consider offering small discounts for early payments. Getting money in sooner often outweighs the cost of the discount.

A business line of credit can give you breathing room when cash is tight. The best time to apply is before you need it

Talk to your lender about refinancing or restructuring your loans. Lower rates or longer terms can ease monthly cash demands. As a top SBA lender in the communities we serve, M&T offers repayment terms designed to give businesses more breathing room.

If you have equipment that you no longer need, consider selling it online, through your network, or to a reseller. Idle assets can become working capital.

When you need new technology, vehicles, or tools, leasing can lower upfront costs and keep more cash in your account.

Excess inventory ties up money. Run promotions, bundle items, or work with liquidators. Even donations can bring tax benefits — check with your accountant.

A rewards or cash-back card can offset purchases and improve flexibility. Look for competitive rates, terms, and benefits that fit your needs. See which of our two options, the M&T Business Rewards Credit Card or the M&T Business Credit Card , suits your needs.

If it’s been a while since your last price change, review your pricing against competitors and market conditions. Sometimes, even a small increase can strengthen your cash flow without losing customers.

If waiting on customer payments is slowing you down, invoice financing may be a helpful solution. It allows you to borrow against what you’re owed to cover expenses in the meantime.

Managing the money going out is just as important as the money coming in. Automating your payables  — like rent, utilities, or vendor invoices — saves time and helps you avoid late fees. Digital payment tools also give you better visibility into what’s due and when, so you can plan your cash flow more accurately.