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What does an Accounting Clerk do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

An accounting clerk is responsible for a wide range of activities, including maintaining financial records, preparing reports, and reconciling bank statements. They may also be responsible for accounts receivable and accounts payable.

Accounting Clerk job duties include:

  • Maintaining financial records
  • Updating and reconciling accounts
  • Processing invoices and payments
  • Preparing reports
  • Answering customer inquiries
  • Assisting with audits
  • Managing collections
  • Maintaining accounting files
  • Performing data entry

Accounting Clerk Job Requirements

An Accounting Clerk 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 sort of accounting certification, such as the Certified Bookkeeper designation offered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers. Prior experience working in an accounting or bookkeeping role is also generally required or preferred. Strong computer skills, especially with accounting software, and excellent math skills are also essential for this role.

Accounting Clerk Skills

  • Bookkeeping
  • Accounting
  • QuickBooks
  • Financial statements
  • Accounts payable
  • Accounts receivable
  • Payroll
  • Tax preparation
  • Auditing
  • Budgeting
  • Cost accounting

Related: Top Accounting Clerk Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Accounting Clerk

An accounting clerk is responsible for maintaining financial records and ensuring that all financial transactions are processed accurately and in a timely manner. If you are interested in becoming an accounting clerk, there are a few things you need to know.

First, it is important to have strong math skills. As an accounting clerk, you will be working with numbers on a daily basis. You will need to be able to add, subtract, multiply, and divide quickly and accurately.

Second, you need to have good attention to detail. This job requires paying close attention to detail in order to catch any errors that may occur.

Third, you should be proficient in using computers and various software programs. Many accounting clerks use software programs such as QuickBooks or Microsoft Excel on a daily basis. Therefore, it is important that you are comfortable using these types of programs.

Fourth, you need to have good communication skills. As an accounting clerk, you will be communicating with co-workers, customers, and vendors on a regular basis. Therefore, it is important that you have strong written and verbal communication skills.

If you possess the aforementioned skills and qualities, then you may have what it takes to become an accounting clerk. To get started in this career, you may need to obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may also require that you complete some postsecondary coursework in accounting or business administration. Once you have the necessary education and training, it is time to start searching for an accounting clerk position that meets your needs and qualifications.

Related: Accounting Clerk Resume Example

Related: Accounting Clerk Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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