What does an Accounts Payable Clerk do?

Accounts Payable Clerks help keep the company in good standing with vendors and creditors by processing invoices and ensuring payments are made accurately and on time. This helps their employers avoid costly late fees and penalties while strengthening important business relationships.

Accounts Payable Clerk skills and qualifications

Accounts Payable Clerks work with detailed financial information from multiple vendors at the same time. Candidates typically need both technical and soft skills to succeed, including:

• In-depth accounting knowledge of financial statements, invoices, accounts payable practices and general accounting terminology
• Computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and accounting software, such as QuickBooks
• Understanding of expense reports and regulatory compliance
• Communication skills to coordinate or clarify payment terms
• Data entry skills, including accuracy and the ability to generate accounts payable reports

Accounts Payable Clerk experience requirements

Accounts Payable Clerks may have several years of experience in accounting or bookkeeping. However, candidates with experience in data entry and finance may learn on the job alongside a more experienced Senior Accountant or Finance Manager. While many employers may prefer candidates with accounting or bookkeeping experience, others may prioritize transferable skills and a willingness to learn.

Since your role may not require prior experience, you might prioritize related industry experience or transferable skills, such as analytical skills, experience with Microsoft Excel, attention to detail, time management and work ethic.

Accounts Payable Clerk education and training requirements

Formal education isn’t usually required for Accounts Payable Clerk positions, making it a strong fit for skills-first hiring. Some employers may prefer candidates with bookkeeping experience or time spent in accounts receivable (AR).

Your Accounts Payable Clerk job description may seek applicants who have completed voluntary formal training. Optional upskilling opportunities can include the Institute of Financial Operations & Leadership’s (IFOL’s) Certified Accounts Payable Professional (CAPP) program with three certification levels. Some community colleges also provide Accounts Payable certifications.

Job description samples for similar positions

If the AP Clerk roles and responsibilities don’t align with your organization’s needs, consider these related job descriptions for similar positions:

• Accounts Payable Specialist
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Accounts Receivable Specialist

Accounts Payable Clerk job description FAQs

Is Accounts Payable Clerk an entry-level position?

Some Accounts Payable Clerk roles may require candidates to have prior finance experience or an accounting certificate. However, many employers are open to hiring entry-level candidates who demonstrate strong organizational skills, familiarity with Microsoft Excel or attention to detail. Others may prefer applicants with experience in related roles, such as a Bookkeeper or Administrative Assistant to an Accountant.

How is an Accounts Payable Specialist different from an Accounts Payable Clerk?

Accounts Payable Clerks generally focus on routine tasks, such as invoice processing, data entry and general paperwork. Specialists may handle specialized tasks, such as analyzing payments based on quarterly or annual reports or refining payment processes to streamline operations.

Who does an Accounts Payable Clerk report to?

Accounts Payable Clerks typically report to an Accounts Payable Specialist or an Accounts Payable Manager. In smaller companies, clerks may report directly to the Director or Vice President (VP) of Finance. They may also collaborate with or report data to other finance-centric roles, including Accountants, Bookkeepers and AR.

What are the interview questions to ask an Accounts Payable Clerk candidate?

When interviewing a candidate for an Accounts Payable Clerk position, you might ask situational interview questions to understand how each candidate follows best practices, such as:

• Have you ever made collection calls? How did you address outstanding debt and ensure payment was received?
• What is your approach to managing vendor records?
• When encountering conflicting payment deadlines, how do you decide which to prioritize?