Small Business Cost Control Checklist

Monthly checklist

1. Review every subscription

List every recurring charge. Cancel anything not used in the last 60 days. Downgrade plans where you're paying for capacity you don't need.

2. Compare supplier prices

Get one fresh quote from an alternative supplier per quarter. Even if you don't switch, it gives you negotiating leverage.

3. Check pricing of your top 5 products

Have input costs gone up since the last price update? A small adjustment now is easier than a big one later.

4. Look at margin per product, not just total

Sort products or services by contribution margin. Pay attention to the bottom of the list.

5. Review staff scheduling

Match staff hours to actual demand patterns, not historical habit.

6. Audit refunds, discounts, and returns

Small discount codes can quietly add up. Track them as a percentage of revenue.

7. Reconsider waste

Spoiled stock, overproduction, and re-do work all count. Reducing waste improves margin without touching prices.

8. Re-examine fixed costs annually

Rent, insurance, and energy contracts can often be renegotiated at renewal. Set a calendar reminder.

9. Build a cash buffer target

Aim for 1–3 months of fixed costs in reserve. Cost control protects this buffer.

10. Document the rules

Decide spending thresholds in advance (e.g. "anything over $500 needs a second look"). Rules beat willpower.

Common mistakes

• Cutting where it hurts customers. Saving $200 a month by lowering quality can cost much more in lost sales.
• One-time blitz, no follow-up. Costs creep back unless reviewed on a schedule.