Accounts Receivable Clerk job description

What does an Accounts Receivable Clerk do?

Accounts receivable clerks track and process incoming payments, manage customer invoices, and follow up on overdue accounts. They ensure that the company receives payments on time and maintain accurate records.

Accounts Receivable Clerk duties and responsibilities

Typical tasks in an Accounts Receivable Clerk job:

• Generates and sends invoices to clients
• Tracks outstanding invoices and payment schedules
• Follows up on overdue accounts for timely payments
• Communicates with clients to resolve payment issues
• Maintains accurate records of accounts receivable
• Reconciles client accounts for accuracy

Qualifications and skills

Education & qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Experience in finance or billing
• Proficiency in accounts receivable software

Skills & requirements

• Demonstrated work experience as an Accounts Receivable Clerk, Accounts Receivable Manager, or Accountant
• Solid comprehension of fundamental accounting principles, fair credit practices, and collection regulations
• Proven ability to calculate, post, and manage accounting figures and financial records
• Data entry skills combined with a proficiency in numerical operations
• Hands-on expertise in utilizing spreadsheets and Billing Programs (e.g., Quickbooks, Open Invoice, Coupa, Taulia, Ariba)
• Proficiency in English and MS Office
• Customer service orientation and adept negotiation skills
• Exceptional accuracy and attention to detail

Accounts Receivable Clerk salary 2026

The average salary for an Accounts Receivable Clerk in the U.S. is about $41,100 per year. Pay depends on experience, employer, industry and region:

• Entry level0-2 years $30,825
• Mid level3-5 years $36,990
• Experienced6-10 years $41,100
• Senior11+ years $45,210
• Top earners20+ years $51,375

Based on public data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Payscale. Career-level figures are estimates derived from the national average.

Accounts Receivable Clerk career path

Accounts Receivable Clerks start in entry-level positions within the financial department, focusing primarily on tasks related to the invoicing and receipt of payments from clients. With experience, they may advance to roles such as Senior Accounts Receivable Clerk, where they handle more complex client accounts and resolve payment discrepancies.

Progressing further, they can become Accounts Receivable Managers or Supervisors, overseeing a team of clerks and being responsible for broader financial management tasks. For those who pursue additional qualifications and demonstrate strong leadership and analytical skills, moving up to higher positions such as Finance Manager or even Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is possible.

Continuing education, such as certifications in accounting or finance, and developing a strong understanding of business and credit management processes are crucial for advancement in this career.

Work environment

Accounts Receivable Clerks typically work in an office setting, usually as part of the accounting or finance team in businesses across various industries. Their work involves managing incoming payments, recording financial transactions, and maintaining accurate financial records.

The role often requires extensive use of computers and financial software to track invoices, process payments, and prepare reports. As such, the environment is generally quiet to moderate in noise level, suitable for tasks that require focus and attention to detail.

Most Accounts Receivable Clerks work full-time during regular business hours, though some overtime may be required at fiscal year-end, during financial audits, or when closing monthly or quarterly books. Advances in technology also allow for some flexibility, with remote work options increasingly available depending on the company's policy and the nature of the tasks involved.