What Is A Full Charge Bookkeeper? Responsibilities, Skills, And Importance

In this case, the full charge bookkeeper position may be converted into an assistant controller position, with responsibility for some aspects of accounting operations. With additional training, a full charge bookkeeper could be promoted into the controller position. A full-charge bookkeeper is the same as a bookkeeper, except that the “full charge” part of the title designates the person as being solely responsible for accounting.

• As a full charge bookkeeper, you will have a range of responsibilities that are essential to the financial management of a business.
• By possessing these skills, you can effectively contribute to the financial success of the business you work for.
• Here, we can handle everything from managing day-to-day financial transactions to preparing detailed financial reports.
• Since they have more experience, they cost more than a regular bookkeeper, which few small businesses can afford right at the beginning.
• If you don’t have experience in full charge bookkeeping (or any bookkeeping experience), you may also need to undergo job training.

One of the primary obligations of a full-charge bookkeeper is to supply accurate and timely financial statements and reviews. Full-charge bookkeepers generate those reports and examine the financial data to offer valuable insights into the organization’s financial health. These insights aid business owners and stakeholders make informed decisions and strategic choices. A full-charge bookkeeper manages full-cycle accounting duties, from the initial invoice to the final trial balance. They analyze financial statements and prepare tax returns, ensuring the business’s financial health is transparent and well-maintained.

Increased Efficiency in Financial Management

They can help businesses forecast future financial situations, plan budgets, and advise on tax-related issues. Accountants usually have a more pronounced role in forming business strategies, supporting the organization’s growth and sustainability. FC bookkeeping is a term that refers to professionals who are fully responsible for a small or medium-sized business’s full-cycle accounting and bookkeeping needs. They usually have more responsibilities than regular bookkeepers and are often in touch with the company’s CEO and upper management. Most companies prefer that full charge bookkeepers combine advanced education or certification with experience in the field. Advanced accounting software training and experience is also helpful for job seekers.

Obtaining professional certifications is a way to showcase your expertise and commitment to the field of bookkeeping. While certifications are not always required, they can significantly enhance your credibility and open doors to better job opportunities. Obtaining the right education and training is the first step towards becoming a full charge bookkeeper. While a college degree is not always required, it can greatly enhance your credentials and increase your chances of securing a good position in the field.

Best Way to Build an In House Accounting Team

The pay range is generally from $15.04 to $30.27 per hour, depending on their experience and reliability. A full charge bookkeeper’s pay rate can also go higher for hourly freelance work versus guaranteed weekly or monthly salaries. A freelance full charge bookkeeper can quote a fee that follows the industry standards, flexible, of course, based on the scope of the work.

This means that the full charge bookkeeper reports straight to a senior manager, such as the president, and may interact directly with the company’s board of directors and auditors. The position can be assisted by an outside CPA who advises on how to record certain of the more complicated business transactions. For example, a billing clerk, payables clerk, or payroll clerk may report to the bookkeeper. No matter how much bookkeeping and accounting duties might differ, a full service bookkeeping job combines some features of both. However, as your business appetites grow and your company scales, you might ask yourself whether this role should be taken to a higher level as well.

Bookkeeper vs. Full Charge Bookkeeper

As these businesses grow and expand, the need for professional bookkeeping services becomes more evident. Even the smallest error or omission in financial data can have significant consequences for a business. As a full charge bookkeeper, you are responsible for maintaining the integrity of financial records and ensuring that all transactions are correctly categorized and accounted for. Attention to detail helps you identify discrepancies, reconcile accounts, and avoid costly mistakes.