The Top Accounts Receivable Interview Questions and Answers Guide

Landing a job as an Accounts Receivable Clerk can be challenging without being prepared for the interview questions. Having insight into commonly asked interview questions and knowing how to best answer them can give you a leg up on the competition. In this guide, we will overview some of the top accounts receivable interview questions and provide sample answers to help you ace your next interview.

What is Accounts Receivable?

Accounts Receivable (AR) refers to the outstanding invoices or money owed to a company by its customers for goods or services delivered on credit. The AR department is responsible for invoicing customers, tracking payments following up on delayed payments and maintaining accurate financial records.

Some common accounts receivable clerk interview questions aim to assess your understanding of the core AR functions:

• In your own words, explain the accounts receivable process.

The accounts receivable process involves issuing invoices, tracking payments, and ensuring timely collection. It’s about maintaining accurate records and ensuring cash flow.

• What are the most important goals of AR?

The primary goals are to ensure accurate invoicing, timely collections, and proper record-keeping to maintain a healthy cash flow

Accounts Receivable Interview Questions About Qualifications

Hiring managers will want to understand your background to assess if you are qualified for the role Be prepared to discuss your education, training, and relevant experience

• What interests you about working in accounts receivable?

I’m drawn to the dynamic environment of your company and the opportunity to apply my skills in AR to help streamline financial processes.

• What training or experience has prepared you for an accounts receivable role?

I have a degree in accounting and have worked for two years in an AR position where I was responsible for invoicing, collections, and reporting.

• How did you become interested in accounts receivable as a career?

As someone who loves working with numbers and has always excelled in math, accounts receivable appealed to me. I enjoy the detailed nature of the work and being able to apply accounting principles.

• Why should we hire you for this accounts receivable position?

I have the necessary educational background you’re looking for along with hands-on experience in AR. I’m known for my attention to detail, organization, and ability to improve processes. I’m confident I can quickly ramp up and add value in this role.

Technical Accounts Receivable Interview Questions

Employers want to know you have the required technical skills. Expect accounts receivable interview questions that assess your knowledge of systems, tools, and accounting principles.

• Describe your familiarity with accounting software. Which programs have you used?

I am proficient in QuickBooks and SAP, which I’ve used extensively for invoicing, payment tracking, reporting, and reconciliation.

• In as much detail as possible, walk me through the journal entry process from generating an invoice to receiving payment.

Upon generating an invoice, I record it as an account receivable. When payment is received, I debit the cash account and credit the AR account.

• What are the steps involved in closing the AR period?

I would reconcile all accounts, ensure payments are posted, verify customer balances are accurate, and prepare financial statements for the period.

• How do you stay current on accounting regulations and standards?

I regularly read accounting journals and publications. I also attend continuing education seminars to keep my skills sharp.

Accounts Receivable Situational Interview Questions

Situational and behavioral accounts receivable interview questions aim to understand how you would handle real-life scenarios:

• Describe a time you found a billing discrepancy. How did you resolve it?

I once found an overcharge on a client’s account. I immediately corrected the invoice and informed the client, maintaining transparency.

• Tell me about a difficult accounts receivable situation you faced. How did you handle it?

When a large customer disputed an invoice, I pulled their full history, reviewed billing details, had a discussion, and reached a compromise. Maintaining the relationship was key.

• Recall an exceptional experience you had in accounts receivable.

When I onboarded a new client, I created a custom invoicing process that perfectly fit their needs, improving their AR efficiency. The client was very impressed.

• How do you prioritize when you have multiple deadlines?

I keep a schedule of due dates. For high priority or time-sensitive tasks, I tackle those first. I also communicate with managers on deadline conflicts.

Questions to Ask the Interviewer

It’s important to have thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. This demonstrates your interest in the company and role:

• Can you describe the onboarding and training process?

• What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this position?

• How does the AR department interface with other teams?

• What do you enjoy most about working here?

• How is an accounts receivable clerk’s performance evaluated?

• Are there opportunities for advancement or professional development?

Key Takeaways

• Research the company’s AR processes and use industry terms in your responses.

• Highlight your accounting education, AR-specific experience, and technical skills.

• Provide detailed examples of challenges you solved and successes you had.

• Ask thoughtful questions that show your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

• Remain confident and personable throughout the interview.

Preparation and practice answering common accounts receivable interview questions will help ensure you ace your next interview and land the job! Review sample questions, practice articulating clear responses, and emphasize the unique value you can bring to the role.