What does a billing clerk do?
Billing clerks are responsible for collecting the records of charges for goods sold or services rendered, calculating the necessary charges, and preparing invoices to be sent to clients and customers. They gather all the necessary information from many different sources such as sales receipts, purchase orders, shipping invoices, credit slips, and tax statements. They also apply applicable discounts. Once billing clerks review all the information the compute the charges using calculators or specialize computer software. They also maintain copies of invoices for recordkeeping purposes. Billing clerks contact clients and customers to make sure their information is current and accurate. They also issue credit memos, track and report returned merchandise, correct discrepancies and inaccurate bills, prepare work orders, and operate office equipment. Some billing clerks handle follow-ups with customers to answer questions and resolve any issues.
What kind of training does a billing clerk need?
Billing clerks typically need at least a high school diploma or GED. Many employers prefer candidates with some postsecondary training and related work experience. Some billing clerks have an associate or bachelor degree in billing. Prospective billing clerks often complete courses in computer billing software, finance, and coding. Most employers provide on the job training where new billing clerks shadow experienced workers to gain the necessary skills and experience. Billing clerks move on to more independent tasks when their employers feel they are ready. Billing clerks often complete additional training as needed throughout their careers.
What are the prospects for a career as a billing clerk?
Employment of billing clerks is expected to grow faster than average for all professions, increasing 15% from 2008 to 2018 (1). The growing population and increase in many different types of transactions in a variety of industries will drive job growth.
Job prospects should be good especially for billing clerks with extensive experience. Many job openings will occur from the need to replace billing clerks that retire, transfer, or leave the field for other reasons.
How much do billing clerks make?
As of February 2010, the average annual salary for billing clerks is $28,000; average annual billing clerk salaries vary greatly on location, employer, education, experience, and benefits (2).
A career as a billing clerk is a great choice for people with a strong interest in performing a variety of billing tasks for many different industries. Billing clerks must have a solid understanding of the necessary billing policies and procedures of their employer. Detail orientation, accuracy, mathematical aptitude, and good organization are necessary characteristics. Billing clerks must avoid making errors and be able to recognize errors made by others. They must also be trustworthy and discreet because they often work with confidential information.
