An Accounts Assistant works within the accounting department of a company and assists senior managers and accounting officials in maintaining, reporting and managing a firm’s finances. He or she will likely work underneath a senior accountant or similar senior staff member
Job duties include the processing of payment requests, invoices and expense-related documentation, as well as accurate input and verification of data into a company’s accounts system, management of petty cash and daily transactions and assisting with year-end and taxation procedures. He or she may also advise budget officers or senior accountants in regards to the overall accounting process or in resolving account-related problems
Many individuals work in this position whilst studying for Association of Accounting Technician certification or an equivalent certificate. Required skills include strong attention to detail, solid mathematical abilities and good organizational skills
The average Accounts Assistant salary in the United Kingdom is £18,000 plus pension benefits, however those working in London are more likely to see yearly salaries of £22,000 or more.

Accounts Assistants are required to deal with tax return forms and assist with financial records inside an accountancy company or an in-house finance team of a company. They provide administrative support and team up with accountants. These assistants can work for industrial organisations, local authorities, accounting practices, voluntary organizations, healthcare trusts, among other institutions.

Accounts Assistants usually perform many of the following tasks:
• Meeting with clients.
• Processing office post.
• Preparing balance sheets.
• Dealing with payroll of a company.
• Monitoring accounts.

• Having high attention to details.
• Being organised and methodical.
• Having good math skills.
• Being trustworthy and honest.
• Being accurate and analytical.
• Having IT skills.
• Having knowledge of policies, systems, and financial structures of a company.
• Having interpersonal abilities.
• Being able to learn quickly.
• Being able to solve different conflicting demands.

Accounts Assistant jobs do not require a specific set of qualifications because several employers offer on the job training schemes for applicants. Most job placements require A levels, good GCSE’s grades A-C in English and Math, quick thinking skills and logical mind. Recommended basic qualifications for this area are accounts preparation or bookkeeping in order to gain the necessary skills and knowledge for this area.

There are other suitable qualifications offered by several institutions including the International Association of Bookkeepers, Institute of Certified Bookkeepers, Association of Accounting Technicians, City & Guilds, among others.