How to Become a Bookkeeper in the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide

Feeling stuck in your current job or ready for a new challenge? If you’re searching for a career that’s both flexible and rewarding, bookkeeping could be the answer. Many people in the UK have transitioned into bookkeeping and built successful careers. So, how can you follow the same path and become a bookkeeper in the UK? In this blog, we will cover everything you need to work in this profession.

What is a Bookkeeper?

First, it is important to understand what a bookkeeper does. A bookkeeper is someone who helps businesses keep track of their financial records. This includes tasks like recording daily transactions, managing invoices, and ensuring that a company’s accounts are balanced. Thus, they play a key role in helping businesses stay organised and compliant with financial regulations.

Unlike accountants, these professionals do not usually provide advice or analyse the finances in detail. Instead, their main job is to make sure the numbers are accurate and up-to-date. Therefore, if you enjoy working with numbers and keeping things organised, bookkeeping might be the perfect career for you.

How To Become A Bookkeeper in the UK?

Education and Qualifications

You might be wondering if you need a degree to become a bookkeeper. The good news is, you don’t. Many of them in the UK start their careers without a formal university education. However, you do need some training and qualifications to get started.

• Basic Education: Although a degree is not necessary, it helps to have a solid foundation in maths and basic business skills. Therefore, having good GCSEs, especially in maths, will be helpful.
• Bookkeeping Courses: To become a professional one, you should take a recognised bookkeeping course. These courses teach you the skills and knowledge you need to manage financial records. Several organisations in the UK offer bookkeeping qualifications, such as the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) and the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB).
• Therefore, taking a course from one of these organisations can give you an edge when applying for jobs. It shows that you have the knowledge needed to perform bookkeeping tasks correctly and professionally.
• Certification: After completing a bookkeeping course, you can take an exam to become a certified bookkeeper. Certification is not always required, but it can help you stand out to employers. Many companies prefer to hire certified professionals because it shows that you meet the standards of the industry.

Gain Experience

Now that you know the qualifications you need, the next step is to gain some experience. Like many other jobs, it is easier to find a bookkeeping job if you already have some practical experience.

• Start Volunteering or Interning: One way to gain experience is by volunteering or interning. Many small businesses or charities need help with their finances but cannot afford to hire a full-time professional. By offering your services, you can gain valuable experience while helping out a local organisation.
• Freelance Work: Another option is to start doing freelance bookkeeping. Many small businesses and individuals need help managing their accounts. You can offer your services on freelance platforms or through word of mouth. Freelancing not only helps you build experience, but it also allows you to start working on your own terms.
• Entry-Level Jobs: If freelancing is not for you, look for entry-level bookkeeping jobs. Many companies are willing to hire junior bookkeepers and train them on the job. As a result, this is a great way to gain experience and learn how bookkeeping works in a real business setting.

What Are The Skills You Need to Be a Bookkeeper?

Being a good bookkeeper requires more than just knowing how to record numbers. You also need a set of skills that will help you do the job well.

• Attention to Detail: As a professional worker, you will be working with a lot of data. One small mistake can lead to big problems, so you need to be detail-oriented and careful when entering information.
• Organisation Skills: Bookkeeping is all about keeping records organised. Therefore, you must be able to manage files and financial information in a way that is easy to track.
• Time Management: Many of them work with several clients at once or have multiple responsibilities. Good time management will help you stay on top of your work and meet deadlines.
• Communication Skills: Although bookkeeping is a numbers-focused job, you will also need to communicate with clients or other team members. Being able to explain financial information in simple terms is an important skill.

How Much Can You Earn as a Bookkeeper in the UK?

One of the most important questions is, how much does a bookkeeper earn in the UK? The salary can vary based on your experience, location, and the type of business you work for.

• Entry-Level Bookkeepers: If you are just starting, you can expect to earn between £18,000 and £22,000 per year.
• Experienced Bookkeepers: With a few years of experience, the salary can go up to around £25,000 to £30,000 annually.
• Freelancers: If you decide to freelance or run your own bookkeeping business, the income potential can be higher. Freelancers can charge by the hour or by the project, and experienced freelance ones can make £30,000 or more each year.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Bookkeeper?

The time it takes to become a professional depends on how you approach it. For those starting from scratch, it can take around 6 months to a year to complete a basic bookkeeping course and gain certification. However, gaining experience and building a client base or finding a full-time job may take longer.

Moreover, you do not need to rush. Bookkeeping is a flexible career path that allows you to learn at your own pace and grow your skills over time.

Conclusion

If you are interested in a career that is flexible, rewarding and does not require years of formal education, becoming a bookkeeper in the UK could be the perfect choice. By following the steps mentioned above—gaining the necessary qualifications, building experience, and developing key skills—you can set yourself up for success. Bookkeeping offers opportunities to work in various industries, freelance, or even start your own business. So, why not start your journey today and discover how to become a bookkeeper in the UK?