An accounting assistant is a key member of the finance team responsible for supporting various accounting operations and administrative tasks to keep financial processes organized and accurate[1]. Typical duties include processing invoices, recording financial transactions, preparing financial documents, and updating accounting databases[1]. Accounting assistants often coordinate with payroll, procurement, and other departments, resolve vendor discrepancies, assist with expense reimbursements, and support monthly or quarterly close processes[1].
Core responsibilities of an accounting assistant commonly include:
- Entering and maintaining financial data in accounting systems with accuracy[1]
- Preparing invoices, receipts, and payment documents[1]
- Reconciling bank statements and general ledger accounts[1]
- Organizing and managing digital and physical financial records[1]
- Assisting with payroll processing and employee expense reporting[1]
- Monitoring accounts payable and receivable workflows[1][3]
- Supporting month-end and year-end closeout procedures[1]
- Communicating with vendors and internal departments to resolve billing issues[1]
- Generating summaries and reports as requested[1][3]
- Ensuring adherence to internal controls and accounting practices[1]
- Completing journal entries and routine bookkeeping[3]
- Assisting in preparation of budgets and financial reports[3]
- Processing payroll activities[3][7]
Key skills and qualifications for an accounting assistant include:
- Experience with accounts payable and accounts receivable processes[2][3][5]
- Familiarity with accounting or bookkeeping software (such as QuickBooks or Microsoft Excel)[2][4][5][6]
- Competence in data entry, 10-key skills, and detail-oriented work[2][6]
- Solid understanding of accounting principles and terminology[3][4][5]
- Strong numerical and analytical abilities[3][4][5]
- Excellent communication and organizational skills[2][3]
This is typically an entry-level role, offering exposure to accounting practices and an opportunity to advance toward higher-level finance or bookkeeping positions[1][5]. While formal accounting degrees are not always required, prior bookkeeping experience or coursework in accounting is strongly preferred[3][8].
References
- [1] Accounting Assistant Job Descriptions for Hiring Managers
- [2] Learn About Being an Accounting Assistant | Indeed.com
- [3] Accounting Assistant Job Description Template
- [4] Mastering the Numbers: Essential Skill for Accounting Assistant
- [5] Accounting Assistant Career Overview
- [6] 15 Accounting Assistant Skills For Your Resume – Zippia
- [7] Assistant Accountant Job Description [Updated for 2025]
- [8] How To Become an Accounting Assistant