In a small business, the owner usually holds the keys to everything: the passwords, the client relationships, the bank account and the calendar. That works until the owner is suddenly unavailable.
Decide who steps in
Name a backup person for the essentials, and decide what they can and cannot do. For licensed work, such as legal work, the plan must respect the professional rules.
Make the essentials reachable
- Passwords in a password manager, with emergency access for your backup person.
- A list of active clients, deadlines and what is due in the next 30 days.
- Who to call: your accountant, attorney, insurance agent and bank.
- How bills get paid, and which are on autopay.
Tell clients the right thing
Prepare a short message that tells clients who to contact and that their work is covered. Keep it ready, not sent.
Review it twice a year
Update the plan when clients, people or accounts change.
Our continuity checklist lists each piece.
This article is general information, not legal, tax or regulatory advice. Rules change; confirm current requirements with the responsible agency or a licensed professional.
