What is Required to Become an Accounts Payable Specialist?

<h2 id="section---CareerInformationAtAGlance">Career Information at a Glance</h2> <p>An accounts payable specialist works with a company's financial records to ensure that invoices are accurate before they are paid. They make sure all vendor invoices are paid on time. Learn more about this career in the table below. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td> <b>Required Education</b> </td><td> Postsecondary education</td></tr> <tr><td> <b> Field of Study</b> </td><td> Accounting, bookkeeping</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Training Required</b> </td><td>On-the-job training is typical</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Key Skills</b> </td><td> Detail-oriented, basic mathematics, computer, integrity, communication</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Job Growth (2020-2030)</b> </td><td> -3% (<i>bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks</i>)*</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Median Salary (2021)</b> </td><td> $45,840**</td></tr> </table><p><i>Sources: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; **PayScale</i> </p> <h3 id="section---WhatDoesAnAccountsPayableSpecialistDo">What Does an Accounts Payable Specialist Do?</h3> <p>Accounts payable specialists oversee a company's invoices and make sure that all bills are recorded and paid in a timely manner. They ensure that the company's financial records are current and accurate, including tax information for vendors. An accounts payable specialist is responsible for obtaining approval from the appropriate department before submitting a payment and for preparing the check. They are also the first point of contact when working with internal and external vendors. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatAreTheEducationRequirements">What Are the Education Requirements?</h3> <p>Some postsecondary education is typically required to become an accounts payable specialist. Many employers prefer those with coursework in accounting; other areas of study might include taxation, business ethics, and economics. Some programs may include fieldwork or a capstone project that allows students to use their knowledge in a real-world setting. </p> <h3 id="section---IsCertificationRequired">Is Certification Required?</h3> <p>While certification is not required for accounts payable specialists, obtaining this may potentially increase career opportunities by demonstrating your ability to take on a variety of accounting tasks. Accounts payable specialists can become certified by passing tests such as the Uniform Bookkeeper Certification Examination administered by the National Bookkeeper Association or the exam administered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers. Upon successfully passing the exam, they can use the Certified Bookkeeper (CB) designation. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatSkillsAreRequired">What Skills Are Required?</h3> <p>In addition to accounting skills, an accounts payable specialist must have computer skills, including spreadsheets and accounting software. They must be able to keep detailed, accurate financial records and notice errors. Accounts payable specialists may work with individuals at all levels, such as support staff, management, and outside vendors. They must have strong written and oral communication skills and be able to interact with others in a professional manner. Since they are in charge of financial records, they must possess honesty and integrity when working with confidential information. </p> <h3 id="section---WhereDoAccountsPayableSpecialistsWork">Where Do Accounts Payable Specialists Work?</h3> <p>Accounts payable specialist jobs are found in any industry that maintains financial records. Many accounts payroll specialists work in professional industries, such as tax preparation, financial, scientific, insurance, or law. They can also work in retail and wholesale trade businesses. Some accounts payable specialists may choose to work in nonprofit organizations, such as hospitals or social services. </p> <p>Most accounts payable specialists work full-time during standard daytime work hours. Some jobs may require evening or overtime hours during the busy season, such as around tax deadlines.</p>