

While learning the ropes of bookkeeping can take some time, almost anyone with a head for numbers and a propensity for data entry can learn with practice. If bookkeeping sounds like it would be a good fit for you - here’s what you need to know. When you hear the term bookkeeping, you may wonder what responsibilities and experience are required. Unlike an accountant or CPA (certified public accountant), which requires a bachelor’s degree and license, bookkeepers fall under the umbrella of accounting. However, bookkeepers are more focused on the day-to-day operations of tracking income and expenses and balancing the books. While experience is beneficial to working as a bookkeeper, you don’t need a college degree or CPA license. Therefore, while the bookkeeping role requires close attention to detail and a high level of accuracy, there’s less responsibility than an accountant’s role. On the other hand, accountants are typically in charge of setting up the overall budget and financial direction for a business they oversee tax information and set up the chart of accounts according to standard accounting practices.

Accountants analyze and audit financial information, produce reports, and make strategic recommendations based on data and tax laws. What Types of Work Do Bookkeepers Do?īookkeeping is a back-office position required in almost every industry, so there’s the built-in advantage of being able to work in any field. Provide monthly reconciliations, financial statements, and financial data.Once you’re trained in bookkeeping, you can work within many different industries and find work that interests you, whether working with small business owners, bloggers, or even non-profits - every industry needs bookkeepers.
