What Does a Bookkeeper Do?
A bookkeeper is responsible for managing the daily financial transactions of a business. They record income and expenses, reconcile accounts, and ensure that financial records are accurate and complete. Bookkeepers play a crucial role in maintaining financial health by tracking cash flow, categorizing transactions, and preparing reports that help business owners make informed decisions.
Unlike accountants, who may focus on tax strategy or financial forecasting, bookkeepers handle the nuts and bolts of the company’s ledgers. They often serve as the first line of defense in spotting errors or inconsistencies and may work closely with accountants during audits or tax season.
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Bookkeeper Core Responsibilities
- Record daily financial transactions into accounting software or ledgers
- Reconcile bank and credit card statements
- Process invoices, payments, and vendor statements
- Track accounts receivable and accounts payable
- Maintain and organize financial documents and records
- Prepare basic financial reports and summaries for management
- Assist with payroll processing and tax filing support
- Monitor budgets and flag discrepancies or unusual activity
- Coordinate with external accountants or auditors as needed
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in accounting software such as QuickBooks, Xero, or FreshBooks
- Solid understanding of double-entry bookkeeping and general ledger accounting
- Strong Excel skills and familiarity with spreadsheets
- Ability to reconcile accounts and detect errors in financial records
Soft skills
- High attention to detail and accuracy
- Strong organizational and time management abilities
- Clear and consistent communication
- Integrity and discretion when handling confidential financial data
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Associate’s degree or coursework in accounting or finance preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with multi-entity bookkeeping or industry-specific software
- Prior work in a small business, retail, or nonprofit environment
- Familiarity with payroll, sales tax, or 1099 filing processes
- Certified Bookkeeper (CB) designation from the AIPB or NACPB
National Average Salary
Bookkeeper salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Bookkeeper is:
$44,982
Sample Job Description Templates for Bookkeepers
Entry-Level Bookkeeper
Position Overview
An Entry-Level Bookkeeper is responsible for supporting financial operations by recording transactions, maintaining organized ledgers, and assisting with basic reconciliations. This is a foundational role ideal for recent graduates or those starting a career in accounting.
Entry-Level Bookkeeper Responsibilities
- Enter daily financial transactions into accounting software
- Assist with processing vendor invoices and customer payments
- Help reconcile bank and credit card statements
- Organize receipts, records, and supporting documentation
- Support preparation of financial summaries and reports
- Follow company accounting procedures and policies
Entry-Level Bookkeeper Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic knowledge of accounting principles and ledger systems
- Familiarity with Excel and accounting software (QuickBooks a plus)
Soft skills
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Eagerness to learn and take direction
- Time management and organization
Educational requirements
- High school diploma required; associate degree in accounting or related field preferred
Full-Charge Bookkeeper
Position Overview
A Full-Charge Bookkeeper is responsible for managing the complete accounting cycle, including journal entries, financial statements, and month-end close. This role typically operates independently and may supervise accounting support staff.
Full-Charge Bookkeeper Responsibilities
- Maintain full set of books, including general ledger, AP/AR, and payroll
- Reconcile accounts and bank statements monthly
- Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports
- Process payroll and manage payroll tax filings
- Coordinate with CPA for year-end reporting and audits
- Manage sales tax collection and remittance
Full-Charge Bookkeeper Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced proficiency with accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero)
- Strong understanding of GAAP and full-cycle bookkeeping
- Experience with payroll processing and tax compliance
Soft skills
- Independence and self-direction
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Excellent time management and organizational skills
Educational requirements
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field
Certifications
- Certified Bookkeeper (CB) preferred
Senior Bookkeeper
Position Overview
A Senior Bookkeeper oversees day-to-day financial operations and ensures compliance with internal controls and regulatory requirements. This role supervises junior bookkeeping staff and collaborates with leadership on financial reporting.
Senior Bookkeeper Responsibilities
- Review and approve entries made by junior bookkeepers
- Prepare financial statements, budgets, and cash flow forecasts
- Oversee account reconciliations and close processes
- Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal financial regulations
- Liaise with auditors and external accountants
- Identify and implement process improvements
Senior Bookkeeper Requirements
Hard skills
- Deep knowledge of financial reporting and reconciliation
- Mastery of accounting software and Excel reporting functions
- Experience managing staff or leading accounting teams
Soft skills
- Leadership and mentoring skills
- Analytical mindset and attention to detail
- High level of discretion and integrity
Educational requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance
Certifications
- Certified Bookkeeper (CB) or equivalent (preferred)
Payroll Bookkeeper
Position Overview
A Payroll Bookkeeper specializes in managing payroll functions, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time, and handling payroll tax compliance. This role may support multi-state payroll and benefits processing.
Payroll Bookkeeper Responsibilities
- Process payroll on a weekly, biweekly, or monthly basis
- Calculate withholdings, deductions, and employer contributions
- Prepare and file payroll taxes and year-end W-2s/1099s
- Maintain payroll records and ensure data accuracy
- Stay up to date on federal and state labor regulations
- Address employee payroll inquiries and discrepancies
Payroll Bookkeeper Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in payroll software (e.g., ADP, Paychex, QuickBooks Payroll)
- Understanding of wage laws, tax codes, and benefits administration
Soft skills
- Confidentiality and accuracy under pressure
- Strong attention to detail
- Clear communication with staff and vendors
Educational requirements
- Associate degree in accounting, HR, or related field
Certifications
- Payroll certification (FPC or CPP) preferred
Small Business Bookkeeper
Position Overview
A Small Business Bookkeeper manages all aspects of bookkeeping for a single business or multiple small clients. This versatile role handles transactions, payroll, tax prep, and reporting with minimal supervision.
Small Business Bookkeeper Responsibilities
- Handle AP/AR, invoicing, and payment processing
- Reconcile accounts and credit card statements
- Prepare monthly financial reports for business owners
- Manage payroll and support quarterly tax filings
- Monitor budgets and suggest cost-saving measures
- Maintain accurate financial records for audit readiness
Small Business Bookkeeper Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong QuickBooks or Xero experience
- Ability to manage end-to-end bookkeeping tasks independently
Soft skills
- Flexibility and multitasking in a small business setting
- Client communication and problem-solving skills
- Organizational precision
Educational requirements
- Associate’s degree in accounting or business administration
Certifications
- Certified Bookkeeper (CB) preferred
QuickBooks Bookkeeper
Position Overview
A QuickBooks Bookkeeper specializes in maintaining financial records using QuickBooks Online or Desktop. This role is ideal for businesses seeking platform-specific expertise for seamless day-to-day accounting.
QuickBooks Bookkeeper Responsibilities
- Record transactions and maintain chart of accounts in QuickBooks
- Set up and customize company files, templates, and integrations
- Reconcile accounts and generate balance sheets and P&Ls
- Manage vendor payments and customer invoicing within QuickBooks
- Assist with QuickBooks troubleshooting and optimization
- Support payroll and sales tax through integrated tools
QuickBooks Bookkeeper Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in QuickBooks (Desktop and Online versions)
- Experience with bank feeds, reconciliations, and custom reports
Soft skills
- Client service mindset and responsiveness
- Efficiency and software troubleshooting capability
- Clear documentation and process tracking
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or associate’s degree
Certifications
- QuickBooks ProAdvisor Certification strongly preferred