home   |    contact us   |   about FVBK

Monthly Buzz #27
July, 2004

Some Measures for Preventing Fraud

The following are some basic measures you can take to help ensure your business’s standing remains strong.

1. Be careful with your mail. When possible, hand deliver important financial documents and large checks directly to your postal carrier or an official mailbox. Do not leave these in easily accessible or overnight boxes. This will reduce the possibility of them being interceded and tampered with.

2. Take advantage of electronic processes. Consider paying bills online with a reputable and secure electronic bill paying service. This offers you proof of payment and allows you to track payments. Restrict the amount of people in your company who have access to important account numbers and information. Monitoring your transactions regularly will alert you to irregularities and unexpected changes early so that you can take proactive steps to avoid any further fraudulent charges. 

3. Systematize your check-writing procedures and limit access to blank checks. Keep blank checks in a secure location. If more than one person has access to or power to write checks, make sure there is a system for recording all check numbers and the appropriate initials in a logbook. This will help you track who purchased what and for what reason.

4. Routinely balance your books. Set up a system to reconcile your bank statements with your accounting records at regular intervals. Consider using a credit card issued by your bank. Large bank institutions offer online tracking of your credit transactions. This will allow you to monitor activity and find any irregularities quickly.

FEATURE:
How to Prepare a Budget Your Business Can Grow By

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORNER:

TAX BRACKET:
Do You Have a Child in College?

 

home   |    contact us   |   about FVBK

Questions or comments? E-mail us.
Copyright © 2001 Flusche, Van Beveren, Kilgore, P.C.