Bookkeeper Requirements, Skills & Qualifications

Owning your own bookkeeping business can be a very rewarding experience. Not only will you be able to help clients manage their finances, but you’ll also have the opportunity to work for yourself and set your own hours. In order to get started in this business, you’ll need to understand the bookkeeper requirements, skills, and qualifications that are necessary for success.

 

Bookkeeper Requirements

In order to be a successful bookkeeper, you’ll need to have a strong understanding of basic accounting principles. You should be able to keep accurate financial records and have experience preparing financial statements. It’s also important that you have excellent customer service skills and be able to work well with clients.

In addition to these skills, you’ll also need to have the proper qualifications. A bookkeeper should have at least a high school diploma. Many bookkeepers choose to get a degree in accounting or business, as well. There are also several certification programs available that can help you become a more qualified bookkeeper.

 

Bookkeeper Skills

In order to be successful in this business, you’ll need to have strong bookkeeping skills. This includes being able to keep accurate financial records and preparing financial statements. You should also be familiar with different accounting software programs and be able to use them effectively.

Customer service skills are also essential for bookkeepers. You’ll be working closely with clients, so it’s important that you’re able to build relationships and provide excellent customer service.

 

Bookkeeping Qualifications

There are several qualifications that bookkeepers should have in order to be successful in this field. A bookkeeper should have at least a high school diploma and many bookkeepers choose to get a degree in accounting or business in addition to a diploma. There are also several certification programs available that can help you become a more qualified bookkeeper.

Here are a few online certification courses you can look into:

National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers

www.nacpb.org

The cost of the certification program and exam is $600-$700.

American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers

www.aipb.org

The cost of the certification program and exam is $500-600.

Coursera

www.coursera.org

The cost of the certification program varies, depending on which course level is taken.

 

Conclusion

If you have the requirements, skills, and qualifications of a bookkeeper, then you may be ready to start your own bookkeeping business. This can be a very rewarding experience that allows you to work for yourself and set your own hours. However, it’s important that you understand the bookkeeping process and have the necessary skills and qualifications before getting started. Consider a bookkeeper certification course to help prepare you for an exciting career in bookkeeping!