Why restaurant sales and available cash differ
Understand how settlements, fees, refunds and payment dates separate restaurant sales from cash available. Review the relevant statements and commitments.
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Published 2026-09-10
Updated 2026-10-01
Summary
Sales describe trading; available cash depends on settled receipts and the obligations due before the next receipt.
Sales, settlements and deposits measure different stages
Sales show trading activity. A settlement statement explains what the processor will pay after relevant fees or adjustments. The bank records the amount that arrived and its date.
Timing can cross the reporting period
A weekend’s card or delivery sales may settle after the sales period ends. Check actual provider statements rather than assuming every sale immediately appears in the account.
Existing commitments affect the amount available
Payroll, approved bills and other obligations may be due before the next receipt. List them beside the dated balance and identify any estimates.
Use both views in the financial review
The P&L and the cash review answer different questions. Ready Margin can review the records and timing behind each; management decides on payments and spending.
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