5 Work From Home Accounting Jobs Plus Pros, Cons, and Tips

Work-from-home accounting jobs are nothing new, but the trend has grown in popularity over the past couple of years. 

Companies have adopted a partial or fully remote model for various reasons, giving rise to new opportunities for job seekers. 

Businesses employing remote accountants search for well-rounded individuals with strong analytical skill sets, computer skills, and the right degree program completed. 

In addition, superb communication skills are also a must-have since collaboration is done virtually.

If you’re an accounting professional that would like to start working from home, take a look at some of the new options available in accounting or related fields.

What responsibilities do online accountants have?

Online accountants have the ability to work from anywhere, whether it’s at home or working abroad in another country. 

The key is to make sure that you have a reliable connection and a quiet area in which to complete the work.

Depending on the company, the responsibilities vary, but they will mostly be as follows:

• Accounts receivable

• Accounts payable

• Finance and tax returns

• Reviewing invoices

• Quarterly financial reporting

• Data entry

• Virtual bookkeeping

What are the different types of remote accounting jobs?

As with many other industries, the accounting world also has specialties an accountant can pursue. 

The 3 most common ones are as follows:

• Management

• Public

• Government

Let’s take a closer look at these specialties.

1. Management accounting

Management accountants focus on working within larger companies, assisting clients with their financial planning and budget optimization.

2. Public accounting

Public accountants work in a public accounting firm with a wide variety of skill sets, allowing them to work with individuals, small businesses, and larger companies. 

Most public accountants will have training in all areas of finance and auditing.

3. Government accounting

Government accountants work specifically for government agencies. Their sole job is to ensure federal funds are spent lawfully and all tax requirements are met. 

Though most government agencies work in the office, some allow accountants to complete financial reporting functions remotely.

What skills and education are required to be an accountant?

Successful accountants will have honed various skills over the years, whether they work in the office or remotely. 

First, an accountant has to complete the correct level of training. 

Most accountants will complete at least a bachelor’s degree or higher and go on to become certified public accountants. While studying, aspiring accountants can always take on additional classes to further refine their analytical and financial skills. With the rise of online learning platforms, you can take on math tutoring in Frisco, Los Angeles, Rome or Berlin—regardless of where you live.

Below is a list of other hard skills an accountant must have:

• Data analysis: this skill is all about taking numbers apart and delivering insights from data points.

• Understanding technology: Accountants have to rely on software such as Oracle, Excel, and QuickBooks to complete their tasks correctly.

• Statistical analysis: understanding the mathematical relationship between data points.

• Writing: how the information an accountant learns is presented is as important as the information itself. On top of knowing how to manage multiple deadlines and reporting information, the presentation of this to those who would use it is the key to success.

• Project management: an accountant is involved in many parts of the business, providing valuable insight to their customers. The ability to manage multiple projects, the project’s expenses, and business needs is a must.

• Business management: an understanding of general business principles and practices will aid in thriving at companies.

• Regulatory management: there are various specialties within this skill, such as forensics, business, personal finance, and taxes, and how they all relate to rules, laws, and regulations.

Accountants also need to possess soft skills. 

Though soft skills may not be the tipping point on whether you get the job, they will be immensely helpful in how well you perform.

• Decision-making

• Problem-solving

• Communicate effectively

• Operational understanding

• Strategic thinking

• Active learning

• Creativity

• Critical thinking

Watch the video below for 8 skills that make a successful accountant: 

What are the pros and cons of remote accounting work?

Working remotely sounds great for many, but before you go all in, it’s important to weigh the pros against the cons.

Pros

• You’ll have an improved work-life balance since many of these jobs offer flexibility throughout the day

• You may be more productive without office distractions and discussions

• There would be more flexibility regarding setting your own schedule

• You’ll save money, especially on commuting to and from the office

Cons

• Isolation from members of the team unless they are inclined to speak through web chat

• Home distractions such as other household members or pets

• Absent corporate culture since there are no meetings or team-building exercises

• Reduced rapport with colleagues as it might be harder to get to know your colleagues without seeing them in person

Where can I find online accounting positions?

Whether you’re looking for entry-level positions or you’ve been in the business for years, there are plenty of ways to find remote work-from-home accounting jobs online. 

Various websites and companies work similarly to job boards providing the opportunity to job search from the comfort of home.

After taking the time to set up an online account and provide your work history, these sites will aid in your search:

• LinkedIn

• Indeed

• ZipRecruiter

• Monster Jobs

• Simply Hired

These sites offer different features to help you find the right potential future employer, such as filters to view job types or benefits.

Though these sites are a good place to start your search, don’t forget that you can also apply with companies directly. 

A quick Google search will reveal which companies are hiring and offering remote accounting work.

What remote accounting jobs are currently available?

Below is a list of the work-from-home accounting jobs currently available.

1. Kaye Bassman International – Remote Senior Staff Accountant position

Listed on Indeed, the Senior Staff Accountant opportunity is for Kaye Bassman International, located out of Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. 

According to the listing, the position is fully remote with a full-time Monday through Friday schedule. 

KBIC is ranked as the number one search firm within the Dallas-Fort Worth area and has shown explosive growth over the past 40 years.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare monthly financial statements

• Monthly analysis of financial statements

• Journal entries

• Reconcile intercompany transactions between the parent company and subsidiaries

• Work alongside auditors

Skills and education:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting

• 5 years of ledger experience required

• GAAP knowledge required

• Microsoft Dynamics GP experience is a bonus

• Proficient in Excel

• Attention to detail

• Intercompany transactional accounting experience

• Resourceful and self-motivated

The company provides time off and, of course, the ability to work from home for an improved work-life balance.

Recent graduates may need to find more experience before applying for a senior position, but this position does afford great benefits including health care, dental, and vision on top of the salary range from $70,000 to $85,000. 

If you’re unsure whether or not your skills could earn you that yearly rate, you could run your resume through Adzuna’s tool to receive an unbiased salary estimation.

2. Regional Management – Senior Accountant position

The Senior Accountant position at Regional Management is for someone who is ready to take their career to the next level. 

For 35 years, Regional Management has worked with its customers to find solutions to every financial aspect of their lives, and any new colleague will have that focus in mind.

Responsibilities:

• Compensation Accounting

• Analysis and advanced compensation plans and performance

• Quarterly earnings release

• SEC 10-Q and 10-K Filings

• XBRL tagging

• GAAP and SEC compliance

• Reconcile accounts receivable and clear transactions

• Analyse accounts and transactions

• Supporting strategies and auditing

• Record, document, and support all transactions in accordance with SOX

• Draft technical accounting memos

• Assist with preparing analyses

Skills and education:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting

• Minimum 2 years of accounting experience

• Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment

• Flexible schedule

• SEC experience is preferred but not necessary

Though the listing doesn’t state the salary or competitive benefits offered, the company states that both are available.

3. Proven Recruiting – Senior Accountant position

The Senior Accountant at Proven Recruiting would join a strong team of the accounting department within this public company which has been solving recruiting problems for its clients for many years.

Responsibilities:

• Complete a month-end close process

• Complete journal entries

• Balance sheet account reconciliations and bank reconciliations

• Process improvements

• Intercompany reconciliations

Skills and education:

• Bachelor’s in accounting with a CPA strongly preferred

• 3 or more years of accounting experience

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and ERP software experience

• Excellent organizational skills

The company provides a salary range of $75,000 to $85,000, which they state is determined by many factors, with an 8% bonus. 

As stated, the position offers a work-from-home opportunity along with a competitive benefits package and the potential to move upward within the company.

4. Accountingprose – Accountant/Bookkeeper position

This full-time mid-senior level position is with a company that works hands-on with clients and their needs.

Responsibilities:

• Top-level accounting support to a portfolio of clients

• Review monthly closes and produce monthly financials

• Review general ledger data and identify any accounting errors

• Train and mentor other staff

• Proactively anticipate client needs

• Ensure accuracy and timely completion of work

• Payroll processes

• Manage sales tax nexus and tax filings

Skills and education:

• Bachelor’s in accounting and understanding of GAAP

• 4 years of accounting experience

• Demonstrated experience with advising clients

• Strong analytical skills

• Ability to multitask

• Ability to work with spreadsheets

• Strong attention to detail

• Comfortable and dedicated workspace at home

• Authorized to work within the United States

The company also prefers someone who has experience with various accounting software.

Their competitive pay starts at $60,000 base pay with performance-based raises, bonuses, and commissions. 

After 90 days of working with the company, all staff receives unlimited time off for a more flexible feel, along with a benefits package including IRA and health benefits. 

Once you’ve been hired, the hours are flexible within a set range to meet client needs.

5. Edward Mann – Staff Accountant position

Edward Mann has a competitive pay of anywhere between $75,000 and $90,000 for their staff accountant. 

The job is showing as fully remote and full-time through their listing. Some travel is required, although no other requirements are listed.

Responsibilities:

• Month-end accounting

• Posting journal entries

• Accruals and repayments preparation

• Resolve discrepancies

• Forecasting

• Analysis and reporting

• Budgeting processes

• Assist with auditing

Since the listing has no other information, it’s best to apply rather than hold yourself back, especially if you meet the requirements for many other postings, such as a degree and accounting experience.

Tips for landing your first remote accounting job

As you start the process of finding the right online accounting job, take a few of the steps below to help secure the position you want:

• Polish up your resume

• Update any online portfolios

• Make sure any links to online publications are handy

• Secure any potential references

• Write a well-thought-out accountant cover letter to submit with your applications

• Apply using only reputable job sites

• Leverage your existing network

As an additional point, especially for those preparing applications for remote accounting positions, showcasing your expertise through well-crafted, professional resume examples can significantly increase your chances. These examples can guide you in highlighting key skills and experience relevant to the job you're aiming for, making a positive impression on potential employers.

Frequently asked questions

Is it easy to be a remote freelance accountant?

Working remotely as a freelance accountant sounds appealing to many, especially since it requires no more than a high-speed internet connection, and it can secure competitive pay. 

Of course, working remotely doesn’t mean the work is easier. Accountants, onsite and online, need to ensure they stay focused on the business and its priorities. 

For those working offsite, this aspect of conducting business has to stay at the forefront of every week. 

Staying in touch with colleagues and higher-ups is paramount in maintaining the right position within the department.

How do I get freelance accounting work?

Follow these basic steps to get freelance accounting work:

• Step 1: Build an online presence with a website, online payments, and social media.

• Step 2: Set prices for your services.

• Step 3: Market your services through SEO, link-building services or old-fashioned marketing techniques.

Online platforms, such as Upwork, can also be great places to find freelance accounting work.

Conclusion

As with many professions in the modern workforce, accountants can find positions that allow them to work from home.

Before taking the leap to work remotely, consider your situation to see if you would be happy working outside of the office. 

Working from home has its perks, but it’s important to ensure it’s right for you.

Agata Kaczmarek has held a passion for writing since early childhood. A professional writer for many years, Agata specializes in writing articles and blogs focused on finance as someone who holds a Master’s Degree in Accounting and Finance.

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