Accountants analyze, record, and report financial information for businesses and individuals. They also ensure that financial records are accurate and that taxes are paid correctly.
Responsibilities
Financial reporting: Prepare balance sheets, income statements, and other financial reports
Budgeting: Assist with budgets and financial forecasting
Taxation: Oversee tax filing and ensure compliance with tax regulations
Auditing: Conduct routine and annual audits
Reconciling: Reconcile bank statements and accounts
Analyzing: Analyze data related to financial reports, tax returns, and accounting records
Advising: Provide financial advice to management and other entities
Internal controls: Develop and maintain internal control procedures
Skills and qualifications
Attention to detail: Spot discrepancies and analyze documents
Analytical thinking: Use logic to address work-related issues and problems
Communication: Communicate financial information to clients in a straightforward manner
Accounting software: Use accounting software to manage finances
Financial statement literacy: Understand all aspects of the most common financial statements
Accountants may specialize in a certain area of practice, including taxation, auditing, management consultancy, and corporate finance.