How Do I Become an Accounts Receivable Accountant?

Accounts receivable is a specific subsector of accounting that involves issuing invoices, tracking due dates, and recording payments. If you want to become an accounts receivable accountant, you will most likely need to obtain formal training and may need to earn a degree. Many employers prefer candidates with certifications in the receivables field. You may also need to gain experience in a support role, such as a receivables clerk or junior accountant. In some cases, as with government or military jobs, security clearances are also required.

Education is key if you want to become an accounts receivable accountant. While accounting clerk positions might be available with a minimal degree of formal education or even on-the-job training, you generally need a degree to become a full-fledged accountant. In some cases, an associate's degree is sufficient, while other employers require a bachelor's degree. Even if the minimum qualifications demand an associate's, a bachelor's may help you find better-paying and more desirable positions. The most commonly earned degrees in this field are accounting and finance.

Many colleges and universities offer accounting and finance degrees, usually through their schools of business. To earn a degree, you take and pass a number of general education classes such as science, math, and language. Social sciences, history, and other general course work may find their way to your class list. You also take several accounting and finance classes, which might include both theoretical and practical courses. While in school, you may want to join an accounting club as networking opportunities can help you become an accounts receivable accountant by building your experience.

Once you have earned a degree, you may want to investigate certifications available for those who want to become an accounts receivable accountant. These types of certifications vary by industry and geographical region. In most cases, certification is earned by passing a comprehensive exam.

Experience can also help you become an accounts receivable accountant. In many cases, you can gain experience while still in school by taking advantage of internships and looking for summer jobs in the accounting field. Experience as an accounts receivable or billing clerk demonstrates familiarity with important duties such as invoice creation, setting up payment plans, and calculating late fees and interest on overdue amounts. It can also show that you are comfortable with standard accounting technologies and processes.

Companies often require those dealing with large sums of money to be bonded or to have good credit. Some, such as military and governmental employers, require security clearances. It is a good idea to keep this in mind and to take care with your personal finances if you wish to become an accounts receivable accountant.