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What does an Accounts Receivable Clerk do?

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

Published 4 min read

An accounts receivable clerk is responsible for maintaining records of all money owed to a company by its customers. This may include preparing invoices, issuing reminders, and updating records. The clerk may also be responsible for reconciling accounts and preparing reports for management.

Accounts Receivable Clerk job duties include:

  • Verify accuracy of invoices and other accounting documents or records.
  • Update accounts receivable database with new accounts or missed payments.
  • Reconcile the accounts receivable ledger to ensure that all payments are accounted for and properly posted.
  • Generate financial statements and reports detailing accounts receivable status.
  • Resolve discrepancies in invoices or other documentation.
  • Prepare bank deposits by compiling data from cashiers, verifying and balancing receipts, and sending cash, checks, or other forms of payment to the bank.
  • Process credit card payments.
  • Investigate and resolve customer queries.
  • Liaise with internal staff and customers to resolve account discrepancies.
  • Monitor customer account details for non-payments, delayed payments and other irregularities

Accounts Receivable Clerk Job Requirements

Most employers require an accounts receivable clerk to have at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, such as an associate's degree in accounting or business administration. Many community colleges and technical schools offer programs in accounting that can lead to an Associate's degree. Some employers may prefer or require applicants to have certification, such as the Certified Public Bookkeeper (CPB) designation offered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers. Accounts receivable clerks typically need at least a few years of experience working with accounting software and handling customer invoices before they are ready for a full-time position.

Accounts Receivable Clerk Skills

  • Accounts Receivable
  • Invoicing
  • Collections
  • Customer Service
  • QuickBooks
  • Microsoft Office
  • Data Entry
  • 10 Key
  • Organization
  • Time Management
  • Attention to Detail

Related: Top Accounts Receivable Clerk Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Accounts Receivable Clerk

The Accounts Receivable Clerk is responsible for maintaining the accuracy of the Company’s accounts receivable records. This position will post cash receipts and perform account reconciliations. The Accounts Receivable Clerk will also research and resolve customer discrepancies.

To become an Accounts Receivable Clerk, one must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Prior experience in accounts receivable or general accounting is preferred but not required. Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications, are necessary. The ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing is essential.

The Accounts Receivable Clerk position offers an excellent opportunity for those interested in pursuing a career in accounting or finance. This position provides the opportunity to develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills. The successful candidate will be detail-oriented, organized, and able to work independently.

Related: Accounts Receivable Clerk Resume Example

Related: Accounts Receivable Clerk Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

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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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