Free 13-week cash flow forecast template
A ready-to-use Excel workbook that shows your cash week by week for the next quarter, and warns you before it runs low.
13-week cash flow forecast
Excel workbook (.xlsx), 15 KB. Works in Excel, Google Sheets, LibreOffice and Numbers. No sign-up.
What's inside
- Forecast: 13 weekly columns with opening cash, receipts, payments, net cash flow and closing cash, all linked by formulas
- Low-cash warning: set a minimum cash buffer and any week that falls below it turns red
- Example: a filled-in version so you can see how it works
- Instructions: how to set it up and keep it current in ten minutes a week
How to use it
Set the start
Enter the Monday your forecast starts and your opening bank balance.
Add receipts
List the cash you expect to receive each week, from real invoices first, then estimates.
Add payments
Enter payroll, rent, suppliers, tax and loan repayments in the week they'll leave the bank.
Review weekly
Each week, replace the forecast with what actually happened and look at the weeks turning red.
Why 13 weeks?
Thirteen weeks is one quarter, seen week by week. It's long enough to see a cash squeeze coming and short enough to forecast from invoices and bills you already know about. Lenders and turnaround advisers use the same format.
For a quick check of how many months your cash will last, try the cash runway calculator.
Common questions
Does the template collect any data?
No. It's a plain Excel file with formulas, and it stays on your computer. There are no macros or links.
How often should I update it?
Weekly. Replace the week just gone with actual figures, then extend the forecast so you always see 13 weeks ahead.
Can you build and run it for us?
Yes. As part of our virtual CFO service we build the forecast from your books and review it with you every week or month.
Related
Step one is free
Fix the leaks. Build the company.
Start with a free 20-minute Leak Check, online, wherever you are. Tell us where money feels tight and we'll show you where it's slipping away.
Or email info@sfglobalconsulting.com, or DM “LEAK” to @shazfinedge on Instagram.