A 13-week cash-flow forecast turns expected receipts and committed payments into a dated weekly view. It is more useful than a bank balance alone because it makes timing, uncertainty and follow-up actions visible.
What to include
- Opening bank position, including money reserved for tax or other committed liabilities.
- Customer receipts by realistic expected receipt date rather than invoice date alone.
- Supplier, people, payroll, tax, finance and other payments by expected payment date.
- A clear distinction between likely, uncertain and unconfirmed cash movements.
How to use the template
- Set the forecast start date and enter the current opening cash position.
- Enter receipts and payments once, in the week they are expected to reach or leave the bank.
- Explain a material adjustment or uncertain date beside the relevant line.
- Review the closing cash forecast, not only the first week.
- Update the forecast weekly and record the next action for an uncertain receipt or commitment.
The forecast does not decide whether a debt will be paid, whether a cost is recoverable or how a tax item should be treated. Use it to identify where a fact, collection action or professional review is needed.
Related FoxSums resources
- Credit Control Checklist: Getting Paid on Time
- Busy but Still Under Cash-Flow Pressure?
- Cash-Flow Forecasting: A Practical Guide for Small Businesses
- Cash Buffer Calculator
Next step
Start with the 13-week forecast. If the figures are difficult to pull together, ask FoxSums about bookkeeping support.
Important
General information only. Check the facts and current official guidance for the business’s circumstances.
Sources and review
- Evidence check date: 2 November 2026.
- FoxSums operational guidance. This resource does not make a tax, legal or regulatory determination.