If your “financial system” right now is one checking account and a constant loop of mental math, this episode is for you.

Here is the Main Street truth. When all your money lives in one pile, your bank balance lies to you. It looks like you are fine until rent hits, payroll clears, a vendor invoice drops, and suddenly, you are back to playing defense.

In Episode 3 of our Profit First for Main Street Retailers series, I will walk you through the simplest version of the Profit First bucket system. It is a set of accounts that gives your money a job so you can stop guessing and start making clearer decisions.

In this episode, you will learn:

• Why one operating account creates stress even when sales are good

• The five core accounts to set up (Income, Profit, Owner Pay, Tax, OpEx)

• How transfer days make this system realistic for solo store owners

• How to stop using tax money, payroll money, or your own pay by accident

• A simple weekly action plan to get started, even if you are busy

This is not about being “good with numbers.” It is about building a structure that can survive real retail life, including busy seasons and surprise bills.

Keywords: Profit First, retail cash flow, small business finance, independent retailer, mom and pop shop, owner pay, tax savings, cash management system, retail operations, small business budgeting, retail profitability, Main Street business