What does an accounting assistant do?

1 Accounting assistant duties

As an accounting assistant, your main duty is to help the accountants and bookkeepers with their daily operations. This may include preparing and processing invoices, reconciling bank statements, maintaining accounting records, assisting with payroll and tax preparation, responding to queries, performing data entry, filing, scanning, and copying. Depending on the size and structure of the accounting department, you may also have to create budgets and reports, analyze financial data and trends, research discrepancies and errors, implement policies and procedures, and provide support and training to other accounting staff.

2 Accounting assistant skills

To be a successful accounting assistant, you need to possess both hard and soft skills. Hard skills are technical and practical abilities related to the field, such as accounting knowledge, bookkeeping, financial reporting, proficiency in accounting software, familiarity with spreadsheet and database applications, numeracy and accuracy skills, attention to detail, and organization skills. Soft skills are personal and interpersonal attributes that help you communicate, collaborate, and perform well in your work environment. These include communication and customer service skills, teamwork and problem-solving skills, time management and multitasking abilities, adaptability and flexibility skills, initiative and self-motivation.

3 Accounting assistant qualifications

To become an accounting assistant, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as some relevant work experience in an office or accounting setting. However, certain employers may require additional education or certification, such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field; a certificate or diploma in accounting, bookkeeping, or office administration from a vocational or community college; or a professional certification from an accredited organization like the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB), the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB), or the International Association of Bookkeepers (IAB).

4 Accounting assistant benefits

Working as an accounting assistant can provide a plethora of advantages, such as a stable and growing career path, since they are highly sought after in many industries and sectors. Additionally, they are rewarded with a competitive salary, earning an average of $37,000 annually in the United States, according to ZipRecruiter. Moreover, it is a valuable learning opportunity as accounting assistants gain exposure to different aspects of accounting and finance, allowing them to develop their skills and knowledge. Finally, it is a rewarding and meaningful role as accounting assistants contribute to the financial health and success of their employers and clients.

5 Accounting assistant challenges

Working as an accounting assistant presents some unique challenges, such as a high-pressure and fast-paced environment with tight deadlines and the need to handle multiple tasks with accuracy and compliance. Additionally, the job is often repetitive and monotonous, as accounting assistants have to perform similar and routine tasks daily. Moreover, the field of accounting is complex and dynamic, requiring accounting assistants to stay up to date with changing accounting standards, regulations, and technologies.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?