What does an Accounts Payable Specialist do?
Published 3 min read
An accounts payable specialist is responsible for processing invoices and ensuring that vendors are paid in a timely manner. They may also be responsible for reconciling vendor statements and maintaining accurate records of payments.
Accounts Payable Specialist job duties include:
- Review and verify invoices and check requests
- Sort, code and match invoices
- Set invoices up for payment
- Enter and upload invoices into system
- Track expenses and process expense reports
- Prepare and process electronic transfers and payments
- Prepare analyses of accounts
- Monitor accounts to ensure payments are up to date
- Research and resolve invoice discrepancies and issues
- Correspond with vendors and respond to inquiries
Accounts Payable Specialist Job Requirements
Most employers require Accounts Payable Specialists to have at least an Associate’s degree in accounting or a related field. Some companies may require certification, such as the Certified Accounts Payable Professional (CAPP) designation offered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Accounts Payable Specialists typically need 1-3 years of experience in accounts payable or a related field. Strong computer skills, including experience with accounting software, are also required.
Accounts Payable Specialist Skills
- Accounts payable
- Accounts receivable
- Bank reconciliation
- Bookkeeping
- Cash management
- Credit management
- Data entry
- Financial analysis
- Invoicing
- Payroll
- Tax preparation
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How to become an Accounts Payable Specialist
The Accounts Payable Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of invoices for payment. This position requires strong attention to detail and excellent communication skills. The Accounts Payable Specialist will work closely with other members of the accounting team and must be able to work independently with little supervision.
To become an Accounts Payable Specialist, one should have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some college coursework in accounting or business is preferred but not required. Strong computer skills are also necessary, as the Accounts Payable Specialist will be using accounting software to process invoices and make payments. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential in this role, as the Accounts Payable Specialist will be communicating with vendors and other members of the accounting team on a daily basis.
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