Stay Out Of TroubleBefore you decide to call it quits, consider these tips for getting your business through tough times.

Just one year ago, all was well: Business was humming along nicely, the checks were rolling in, and you had to boost staff numbers to handle growth. But lately, things are too quiet: You've lost several customers because of their financial troubles, and other customers are paying late. Your accounts have dipped precipitously, and you've realized quite suddenly that if this continues, you might not have enough money to make next month's payroll.

With home equity loans and other fast credit harder to come by these days, a little bit of trouble can be that much harder to handle. But by recognizing the warning signs and acting on them, you can sidestep the abyss.