What does an Accounting Assistant do?
Published 3 min read
An accounting assistant is responsible for a variety of tasks within the accounting department, such as maintaining financial records, preparing reports, and assisting with audits. They may also be responsible for accounts payable and receivable, as well as payroll.
Accounting Assistant job duties include:
- Maintain and update accounting records
- Prepare journal entries and reconcile accounts
- Assist with month-end closing processes
- Prepare financial statements and reports
- Perform account analysis and reconciliations
- Assist with budget preparation and forecasting
- Support auditing activities by providing documentation and information
- Help maintain internal control systems
- Manage invoicing and collections processes
Accounting Assistant Job Requirements
An Accounting Assistant typically needs at least an Associate's degree in accounting or a related field, although some positions may only require a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers also prefer candidates who have completed some type of accounting certification, such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation. In terms of experience, most Accounting Assistants have at least a few years of experience working in an accounting or bookkeeping role.
Accounting Assistant Skills
- Time management
- Organization
- Communication
- Writing
- Research
- Analysis
- Critical thinking
- Problem solving
- Microsoft Office
- Google Suite
- QuickBooks
- Accounting
Related: Top Accounting Assistant Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become an Accounting Assistant
There are many ways to become an accounting assistant. One way is to attend a college that offers an accounting program. Many community colleges offer two-year accounting programs that lead to an associate's degree in accounting. Once you have completed the program, you can sit for the certified public accountant (CPA) exam. Alternatively, you can attend a four-year college and obtain a bachelor's degree in accounting.
In addition to attending college, you can also become an accounting assistant by working your way up through the ranks of a company's accounting department. Many times, entry-level positions in accounting do not require a college degree; instead, on-the-job training is provided. Therefore, if you are interested in becoming an accounting assistant, you should consider pursuing an entry-level position in an accounting department and then completing any necessary on-the-job training.
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