18/05/2026
Are you a business owner and just transferring money as you need it? 👀
If you are in business and just transferring money as you need it, you're not the only one! A lot of business owners do it that way in the beginning, because no one really explains what the right amount is or how to work it out.
First, you need to know how you actually pay yourself. And that depends on your business structure – sole trader or limited company. That part changes depending on how you are set up.
How much you can afford to take is the bit that matters for everyone.
1. Start with what you actually need.
Before you work out what to pay yourself, work out your personal monthly costs. Think about things like mortgage/rent, car payments, bills, food, insurance, phone, internet, credit card repayments.
This gives you a base to work from, otherwise you're just guessing.
2. Then, look at what your business is making.
Start with the money coming in and take off the business expenses.
Revenue – business expenses = what is left.
BUT that doesn’t always mean that money is yours to take. There are still a few things sitting there that need to be accounted for first.
Don’t forget tax and NI. It needs to be put aside.
For a lot of sole traders, putting aside 20% will be a good starting point for tax. It’s not exact for everyone but it’s usually enough.
This is why separate savings accounts help – it keeps that money out of your day-to-day spending.
3. What is actually available?
So once you take off business expenses and tax set aside, you can see what’s actually left for you to take out.
That’s the number you want to work with, NOT your bank balance.
4. Once you know what the business can support, choose an amount and pay yourself consistently.
That makes life easier personally, and it also gives you a much better idea of whether the business is actually supporting you properly.
5. Check in on it every few months.
Your pay doesn’t need to stay the same forever. If income goes up, expenses change, or the business starts performing differently, review it.
That way you’re adjusting as the business changes instead of waiting until the end of the year and realising it has all been a bit off.
I'm currently taking on new clients to help support with their finances - DM me FINANCE to enquire today and find out more.
Tracey x