The Business Owner Success Survey, or BOSS, is one of the most popular surveys done for the small business owner. As one myself, I find it useful. And as a bookkeeper for many business owners, I find it is definitely worth sharing.Here are my 4 key takeaways.

1. Business owners sacrifice their own finances to pay bills

This is one of the most common complaints a business owner has. The problem is actually fairly common, especially for businesses who are first starting out. Even those who are on their feet may occasionally have to give up something like time with family, health or wellness, and even some of their own finances. In fact, over 75% of business owner’s reported doing one of these over the last year. While most owners feel the sacrifice is worth it, about 18% of them question their efforts each day.

Did you know? There were over 36 million businesses in the United States in 2023, the last year for which there is data? They collectively earned about $50 trillion in receipts. Source: Census.gov

2. Many Business Owners Share the Same Problems

Among the top problems among business owners were:

  • Juggling taxes: federal, state, and local.
  • What to do when clients pay late.
  • The economy and inflation.
  • Any other issues outside their control.

For these business owners, the use of a bookkeeper may be worth it. Yes, there is a cost involved. However, they can pay for themselves by saving you time by doing tasks such as prepping receipts for taxes, showing which clients are outstanding in payments, and keeping your workers and contractors honest.

3. Profits are Down

In 2024, over 50% of business owners reported that profits were at or above expectations. For 2025, the number decreased to about 30%. In 2024, a bit over 10% said profits were below expectations. In 2025, that number grew to about 18%. Most business owners said inflation affected their profits, with about 55% having to raise prices as a result. The good news is that:

  1. Inflation hasn’t moved much since 2024.
  2. There is a good chance it could go down significantly in 2026-2027.
  3. Inflation isn’t as impactful here in Texas.

4. Changes are Planned in the Coming Year

The good news is that many business owners plan to adapt with all of these changes. The biggest change was plans to increase productivity such as investing in software, automation, and other similar expenses. The next biggest change was the decision to offer new services or products. The third plan for many business owners is to improve finances such as redoing their budget, changing investment strategies, and searching for new financial opportunities – all tasks which a bookkeeper can help with.

To read the entire report for yourself, click here.

More on The Bookkeeper’s Breakdown to the Business Owner’s Survey in Houston

Do you own a business in Houston and see your own problems in the above? Contact us to learn more about how our bookkeeping services can help you navigate these problems.