The accounting clerk accounts receivable job outlook is looking bright, with a steady demand for professionals with this skillset. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks, which includes accounting clerks accounts receivable, is projected to grow 10% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
This growth is driven by the increasing complexity of financial transactions and the need for accurate and timely financial record-keeping. As a result, companies are looking for skilled accounting clerks to manage their accounts receivable and ensure smooth financial operations.
With experience, accounting clerks can move into senior roles or specialize in specific areas, such as credit and collections. A strong understanding of accounting principles and software, such as QuickBooks, is essential for success in this field.
Accounting Clerk Accounts Receivable
As an accounting clerk, you'll be responsible for providing accounting and clerical support to the accounting department, which includes typing accurately and preparing and maintaining accounting documents and records.
One of the key responsibilities of an accounting clerk is to provide accounting and clerical support to the accounting department. This can include tasks such as preparing bank deposits, general ledger postings, and statements.
An accounts receivable clerk is a specific type of accounting professional who is responsible for tracking, billing, and collecting money owed to a company by its customers. Their main duties include preparing and sending invoices to customers, recording customer payments in the accounting system, and reconciling customer accounts.
To be successful as an accounts receivable clerk, you'll need to have a high degree of accuracy, great attention to detail, and strong customer service skills. You'll also need to be able to calculate and manage accounting figures, as well as have a basic understanding of accounting principles.
Some of the key tasks that an accounts receivable clerk will perform include posting customer payments, tracking revenues, and updating receivables. They'll also need to maintain records, verify account discrepancies, and resolve collections.
Here are some of the key responsibilities of an accounts receivable clerk:
- Posts customer payments by recording cash, check, and credit card transactions.
- Tracks revenues by verifying and entering transactions from the lockbox and local deposits.
- Updates receivables by totaling unpaid invoices.
- Maintains records by microfilming invoices, debits, and credits.
- Verifies validity of account discrepancies by obtaining and investigating information from sales, trade promotions, and customer service.
In terms of education and experience, most accounts receivable clerks have a bachelor's degree in accounting and at least a few years of experience in a related role.
Requirements and Skills
To be an effective accounting clerk accounts receivable, you'll need a solid foundation in accounting principles and practices. A high school degree is required, but an Associate's degree or relevant certification is definitely a plus.
You'll also need proven accounting experience, preferably in a role like Accounts Receivable Clerk or Accounts Payable Clerk. Familiarity with bookkeeping and basic accounting procedures is essential, as well as competency in MS Office, databases, and accounting software.
Here are some key requirements and skills to keep in mind:
- Accuracy and attention to detail
- Aptitude for numbers and data entry skills
- Ability to perform filing and record-keeping tasks
- Well-organized and able to manage multiple tasks effectively
Additionally, you'll need strong customer service skills, a high degree of accuracy, and great attention to detail. A basic understanding of accounting principles is also necessary, as well as comfort working with budgets, payroll, revenue, and forecasting.
Requirements and Skills
To excel as an accounting clerk, you'll need a solid foundation in accounting principles and technical skills. A high school degree is typically required, but an Associate's degree or relevant certification can be a significant plus.
Accuracy and attention to detail are essential skills for an accounting clerk, as they'll be working with financial records and data. You should also have a strong aptitude for numbers and data entry skills.
In terms of technical skills, proficiency in MS Office, databases, and accounting software is crucial. You should also be comfortable with spreadsheets and financial reports. Additionally, you'll need to be well-organized and able to manage multiple tasks effectively.
Here are some key skills and qualifications to keep in mind:
- High school degree required; Associate's degree or relevant certification a plus
- Proven accounting experience, preferably as an Accounts Receivable Clerk or Accounts Payable Clerk
- Familiarity with bookkeeping and basic accounting procedures
- Competency in MS Office, databases, and accounting software
- Hands-on experience with spreadsheets and financial reports
- Accuracy and attention to detail
- Aptitude for numbers and data entry skills
- Ability to perform filing and record-keeping tasks
- Well-organized and able to manage multiple tasks effectively
Educational Requirements
Most employers require accounts payable and receivable clerks to have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. Some employers offer entry-level positions that don't require prior experience or training, but they usually prefer candidates with accounting-related experience or formal education.
While some employers may not require a bachelor's degree, individuals holding one often seek clerk positions as a way to gain employment in a specific company or industry, with the intent to pursue promotions later on. Employers rarely require a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field for accounts payable and receivable clerk positions.
Pursuing an associate's degree in accounting, finance, or payroll accounting can be beneficial for would-be accounts payable and receivable clerks, as it provides specialized skills and training that can give them an advantage in the competitive job market. Many online and campus-based colleges and technical schools offer certificate programs specific to accounts payable/receivable.
New vs Experienced Salaries
Entry-level accounts receivable clerks can expect starting salaries around $30,000 per year or $15 per hour.
As you gain experience handling billing, collections, reporting, and reconciliation, your salary can rise to the national median of $37,110.
High performers with 5-10 years of experience can command salaries approaching $50,000 per year.
More specialized experience in particular industries or accounting systems can enable experienced accounts receivable clerks to earn towards the higher end of that range.
Years of Experience
In the world of accounts receivable, years of experience play a significant role in determining salaries. Those just starting out as clerks often make around $30,000-$40,000 per year.
As you gain more experience, your salary can increase. With 3-5 years under your belt, you may earn closer to the national average of $48,000.
For clerks with over 5 years managing high volumes of invoices and collections, salaries can reach $60,000-$75,000.
Accounts Payable Clerks
As an accounts payable clerk, your main goal is to manage outgoing bills and invoices on behalf of the company. This includes sending out payments for company credit cards.
You'll be responsible for updating and maintaining records of expenditures. This is crucial for keeping track of the company's finances and making informed decisions.
Some specific duties associated with this position include responding to vendor invoices and ensuring that all payments are made in accordance with company policy. You'll also need to ensure that all payments are sent on time.
Here are some key tasks you'll perform as an accounts payable clerk:
- Updating and maintaining records of expenditures
- Sending out payments for company credit cards
- Responding to vendor invoices
- Ensuring that all payments are made in accordance with company policy
- Ensuring that all payments are sent on time
- Resolving payment discrepancies and disputes on behalf of the company
As an accounts payable clerk, you'll play a vital role in the company's financial management. Your attention to detail and organizational skills will be essential in keeping the company's finances running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the duties of accounts receivable?
Accounts receivable professionals manage customer payments, ensuring accurate invoicing and reconciliation of accounts. Their duties include matching payments with invoices and completing transactions to maintain accurate financial records.
Sources
- https://www.elevatus.io/template/accounting-clerk-job-description/
- https://www.mynextmove.org/profile/summary/43-3031.00
- https://www.vintti.com/blog/accounts-receivable-clerk-salary-what-can-you-earn-in-receivables-management
- https://hiring.monster.com/resources/job-descriptions/administrative/accounts-receivable-clerk/
- https://www.accountingedu.org/accounts-payable/
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