In these uncertain times, many companies are looking for ways to boost cash on hand.

Sometimes, cash flow can be improved by doing something counterintuitive: filing your taxes.

Many companies will want to consider a net-operating-loss carryback this year, said Dan Kielek, a certified public accountant and partner at Clifton Gunderson LLP in Broomfield. It allows companies that posted a loss in the most recent tax year to reduce taxes paid in previous years, usually resulting in a refund.

Profitable companies should research whatever deductions might be available to them, such as a section 179 deduction, Kielek said. This allows them to deduct the cost of new assets as an expense in the first year, instead of depreciating the asset for a number of years.