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Small-business advice: Keeping a reserve fund

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Dear Karen: How much cash should a small business set aside as a reserve fund?

Answer: Because economic recessions are cyclical, having an adequate capital reserve is imperative for small businesses. It’s also important to hedge against seasonal downturns and family emergencies or health problems.

Just as individuals are advised to save enough to meet personal expenses for three to six months, companies should do the same, said Jim Sharvin, a CPA in Torrance.

“Put that savings in a money market fund or a short-term CD. Don’t put it at risk at all,” he said. And consider that you may need additional cash to fund items such as corporate pension payments, inventory renewals and payroll taxes. “It’s better to err by 10% over, rather than minimize your expenses and be surprised later,” Sharvin said.

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• Website design tips

Dear Karen: I’m redoing an old website. Do you have any tips?

Answer: First, congratulations. A recent University of Maryland/Network Solutions survey showed that half of small businesses still do not have websites.

Here is some advice from Roy Chomko, president of Chicago Web development firm Adage Technologies: Keep websites simple, easy to navigate and consistent in terms of themes and colors. Include “about us” and “contact” pages that are up to date. Promote your company’s message; don’t try to entertain with flashy videos or animations.

Small-business questions? E-mail Karen at smallbiz@latimes.com

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