Full-Charge Bookkeeper Requirements

In large companies, bookkeeping responsibilities are often assigned to multiple departments such as payroll, accounts receivable and accounts payable. However, many smaller companies tend to hire one bookkeeper who can do it all. These individuals are known as full-charge bookkeepers. In addition to the duties of a regular bookkeeper, full-charge bookkeepers also enter data into the general ledger and prepare financial statements.

Education

No one formal education requirement exists for the position of a full-charge bookkeeper. Specific educational requirements vary according to each individual employer's needs. Some employers may require a bachelor's degree, some an associate degree, and others may not even require a degree at all. However, as a general rule of thumb, most employers prefer candidates who have graduated from at least a certificate or associate degree program where they specialized in bookkeeping or accounting.

Bookkeeping Experience

Full-charge bookkeepers must have prior bookkeeping experience. A typical career path for a full-charge bookkeeper involves graduating from college with an associate or bachelor's degree in accounting, working as an entry-level bookkeeper under someone more experienced, and then gaining three to five years of experience as a regular bookkeeper. Only after the candidate has experience in all areas of bookkeeping including accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll can she then be considered for full-charge bookkeeping roles.

Accounting Software Proficiency

In addition to educational and working experience, full-charge bookkeepers must also demonstrate proficiency in the accounting software programs their company uses. Companies may use popular programs used across the industry along with lesser-known or more customized accounting software. Therefore, as a full-charge bookkeeper, you may be responsible for learning new software for each company you work for.

Certification

While full-charge bookkeepers aren't required to obtain certification, it can be beneficial to their careers. Obtaining this voluntary certification shows employers that you take initiative, and that you're competent enough in your bookkeeping skills to pass a standardized examination. Certification is offered through the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers to all bookkeepers who have at least two years of experience and pass an examination. After certification is obtained, continuing education requirements must be met every three years to maintain certification.

References

• United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics: Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
• Accounting Jobs Today: AJT / Bookkeeper Job Description
• Education-Portal.com: Bookkeeping Training Programs and Requirements
• Universal Accounting: Am I an Accountant or a Bookkeeper? What is the Difference?