Accounts Receivable Clerk
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Create and send invoices to customers
- Record customer payments and match them to invoices
- Apply cash receipts and update account balances
- Follow up on overdue invoices with reminders
- Resolve payment differences and short payments
- Investigate and correct account errors
- Maintain customer account records and contact details
- Prepare aging reports for overdue balances
- Support month end closing tasks
- Coordinate with Sales and Customer Service on billing issues
- Handle customer questions about invoices and payment terms
- File and organize billing documents for audits and reviews
Top Skills for Success
Attention to Detail
Time Management
Written Communication
Customer Service
Problem Solving
Basic Accounting Knowledge
Invoice Processing
Payment Posting
Collections Follow Up
Account Reconciliation
Spreadsheet Skills
Accounting Software Proficiency
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Accounts Receivable Specialist
Billing Specialist
Collections Specialist
Accounting Assistant
Bookkeeper
Transition Opportunities
Staff Accountant
Revenue Accountant
Credit Analyst
Finance Analyst
Accounts Receivable Supervisor
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Account ReconciliationDispute ResolutionAging Report AnalysisCredit and Collections Process KnowledgeAccounting Software ProficiencySpreadsheet Skills
Development SuggestionsPractice reconciling customer accounts using sample data, build confidence in spreadsheet basics, and learn one common accounting system through guided tutorials. Ask to shadow month end tasks and take on a small portfolio of accounts to strengthen collections and dispute handling.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry LevelUSD 35,000 to 45,000
Mid LevelUSD 45,000 to 60,000
Senior LevelUSD 60,000 to 75,000
Growth Trend
Steady demand. Hiring remains consistent across most industries, with increased emphasis on accuracy, customer communication, and accounting software skills.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
Large retail chainsHospitals and healthcare networksManufacturing companiesLogistics providersProperty management firmsBusiness services companies
Industry Sectors
HealthcareManufacturingRetailLogistics and transportationReal estateProfessional servicesTechnologyConstruction
Recommended Next Steps
1
Learn a common accounting system used in your area and add it to your resume2
Improve spreadsheet skills with a focus on sorting, filters, and pivot tables3
Create a simple weekly workflow for invoicing, posting, and follow up4
Track key metrics such as days past due and share a short status update with your manager5
Practice a consistent collections message that is firm, polite, and clear6
Ask for opportunities to support month end close and account reconciliation7
Update your resume with measurable results such as reduced overdue balances or faster invoice turnaround