Accounting Clerk Job Description: Key Duties, Skills, and Requirements

Learn what accounting clerks do, the skills they need, and why their role is key to keeping a company’s finances organized and on track.

May 07, 2025

Post by Wilma Ivanisevic

Accounting clerks are the ones who keep things running behind the scenes. They handle daily tasks like entering numbers, checking invoices, and updating records. Their work isn’t flashy, but it keeps the finance team on track. When the records are correct, the company can make better decisions. That’s why this role matters more than it might seem. In this article, we’ll explain what accounting clerks do and what skills help them succeed. We will also discuss what employers usually expect.

Key Duties and Responsibilities of an Accounting Clerk

Accounting clerks help keep a company’s finances in order. They take care of everyday tasks that help the business stay organized and make sure money is handled properly. It’s true that their job may not always be in the spotlight. However, without them, many things could quickly fall behind. Here’s what accounting clerks usually do in their day-to-day work.

Daily financial transactions

Accounting clerks handle the money that moves in and out of the company every day. They record invoices that the company sends to customers. They also process invoices received from suppliers. Clerks keep track of bills that need to be paid and money that should come in. If a payment is late or missing, they follow up to fix it. When records are kept up to date, the company avoids delays, extra costs, and confusion.

Maintaining financial records

Accounting clerks help keep financial documents neat and correct. These documents include receipts, invoices, reports, and bank statements. They enter all the data into spreadsheets or accounting programs. After entering the numbers, they check to make sure everything is right. If they see something wrong, they fix it right away. Small mistakes can lead to bigger problems later, so paying attention matters. Keeping good records helps the company understand its money and make smart choices.

Assisting with payroll

Accounting clerks often help with payroll tasks, too. They gather time sheets from employees each pay period. They check that the hours are correct and approved. Then they help figure out pay, including overtime, time off, or bonuses. They also make sure taxes and other deductions are included. When everything is done right, employees get paid on time, and everyone stays happy.

Supporting month-end and year-end closing processes

At the end of each month or year, the accounting team checks all the money coming in and going out. Accounting clerks help by putting together reports that show how much was earned and spent. They also compare the company’s records with bank statements to make sure the numbers match. If something looks off, they help find the mistake and correct it. This helps the team keep records clean and correct. Accurate records are important for taxes, reports, and future planning.

Communicating with clients and vendors

Accounting clerks also talk to people outside the company. They talk to clients about unpaid bills and check payment details with vendors. Sometimes they call or send emails to clear up confusion. They help solve problems and answer any questions people have. Hence, being friendly and easy to understand helps build trust and avoid delays.

Accounting clerks are an important part of any finance team. They handle the small but essential tasks that keep everything else moving. A good accounting clerk is organized, focused, and easy to work with. Their support helps the company stay on top of its finances and avoid costly mistakes.