Accounts Assistant Job Responsibilities

An accounts assistant plays a vital role in supporting the finance team of a business. From managing invoices to reconciling bank statements, this role keeps the day-to-day finances organised, accurate and compliant. Whether you're considering a career in accounting or hiring someone for this position, it’s important to understand the full scope of what an accounts assistant does in the UK.

Accounts Assistant Job Description

An accounts assistant helps with the smooth running of a business’s finance operations. They support accountants and finance managers by handling routine tasks such as data entry, invoice processing, and record-keeping. The job combines financial accuracy, attention to detail, and knowledge of accounting systems.

Typically reporting to a company accountant or finance manager, an accounts assistant provides essential support that keeps financial processes up to date and compliant with UK standards.

Accounts Assistant Work Duties / Responsibilities

The day-to-day tasks of an accounts assistant can vary depending on the size and type of organisation, but most roles cover several core responsibilities.

Processing purchase and sales invoices is one of the main duties. This involves logging, checking, and matching invoices to ensure suppliers and customers are billed or paid correctly. They also assist in preparing VAT returns, reconciling bank statements, and monitoring petty cash.

Maintaining ledgers, managing expense claims, and supporting payroll processing may also be part of the role. Month-end support is another key responsibility, where they help with closing accounts, running reports, or assisting auditors.

The role may include communicating with suppliers, customers, and other departments to resolve financial queries or chase outstanding payments.

Accounts Assistant Qualifications / Requirements

There is no single route into the accounts assistant role, but many employers look for GCSEs in maths and English as a minimum. For those serious about progression, qualifications from AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) are widely recognised and respected.

Some employers may also accept relevant experience or on-the-job training in place of formal qualifications. Having a basic understanding of accounting software, such as Sage, Xero or QuickBooks, can be a significant advantage.

Good computer literacy and working knowledge of spreadsheets (especially Excel) is expected. A full understanding of double-entry bookkeeping or general accounting principles is often required or developed on the job.

Accounts Assistant Key Skills

To succeed as an accounts assistant, you need more than just number-crunching ability. Attention to detail is critical, as errors in financial data can lead to wider problems down the line. Time management and the ability to meet deadlines are also essential, especially during busy periods like month-end or tax season.

Clear communication skills help when liaising with suppliers, colleagues or customers about financial matters. Discretion and professionalism are important, as you’ll be handling sensitive financial data. Adaptability, reliability, and being a self-starter are also qualities that employers value highly in this role.

Accounts Assistant Employers

Accounts assistants are needed across a broad range of industries in the UK. From retail chains and manufacturers to legal firms, tech companies, and charities — almost any organisation with a finance function may employ one.

Larger companies may have entire finance teams with several accounts assistants, while smaller businesses may rely on a single assistant to cover a range of duties.

Some accounts assistants also work within accountancy firms, supporting a portfolio of clients with bookkeeping, VAT returns and admin tasks.

Accounts Assistant Related Job Titles

The title "accounts assistant" can vary, especially across different industries or levels of responsibility. Some similar or related job titles include:

• Finance Assistant

• Accounts Clerk

• Accounting Technician

• Bookkeeper

• Finance Administrator

• Junior Accountant

Each of these roles may overlap in duties, with the difference often lying in the size of the company, sector, or level of seniority.

Average Salary for a UK Accounts Assistant

The average salary for an accounts assistant in the UK typically ranges from £20,000 to £28,000 depending on location, experience, and qualifications.

In London and other major cities, starting salaries may be higher, while those with AAT Level 3 or above, or several years of experience, can command pay closer to the top end of the range.

Some accounts assistants move on to become accountants or finance managers after gaining qualifications and experience, opening the door to significantly higher earnings.

Final Thoughts

An accounts assistant is a foundational role in finance, ideal for those looking to enter the accounting field or build a steady career in business support. With varied duties and real progression opportunities, it's a practical starting point for anyone interested in finance.

Employers gain a vital team member who helps keep records accurate and processes moving, while employees benefit from hands-on experience that can lead to professional development and long-term career growth.