Because the end of the month is a hectic time in any back office, a monthly checklist can help ensure all financial transactions that affect your bottom line are accounted for. Setting a deadline for the month-end close helps too. For example, you would regularly close the month and run reports by the fifth of the following month.

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There are the usual day-to-day dealings to post. But there are also several unique transactions that only get posted on a monthly or quarterly basis that need to be accounted for. Completing some of these tasks may initially seem like a chore, but having them as part of your routine will help you immensely in the long run. Your organization will run smoother and more efficiently when you finish the tasks on the checklist for the end of each month.

Below is a checklist to help your accounting month-end process go smoothly. Feel free to edit it as necessary to make it your own, based on the needs of your organization. Then implement it as part of your standard month-end accounting procedures.

For further assistance, check out our recorded webinar on monthly closing procedures. The suggestions in the video are helpful and applicable regardless of the accounting system you use.

Good luck, and always consult a CPA or trusted professional if you need tax or accounting advice.