Budget and Cash Flow Forecast

A structured Word template for preparing an annual budget (expected income and costs) and a 12-month cash flow forecast (the actual money in and out of the bank), with an assumptions register, a capital spending and funding plan, scenario testing and a monthly budget-versus-actual review. It is ideal for presenting to directors, trustees, lenders, investors or grant funders.

• Before the start of each financial year
• When applying for a loan, overdraft, grant or investment
• When starting a business, or planning a major change such as new premises, staff or equipment
• When cash is tight and you need to see the pinch points in advance

• Start with the assumptions in section 2 – every figure should trace back to one
• Replace “Month 1” etc. with your actual month names (for example April 2027)
• Complete the budget first, then convert it into cash timing for the forecast
• Update the forecast monthly with actual figures and roll it forward
• If you prefer formulas, build the same layout in a spreadsheet and use this document as the narrative and sign-off