If you’re considering a career in accounts receivable or are simply curious about the earning potential in this field, this listicle breaks down typical pay rates across various accounts receivable roles. Whether you’re an entry-level candidate, a seasoned professional, or someone looking to specialize, this guide offers real salary data and job specifics to help you understand what to expect.
Accounts Receivable Clerk
Accounts Receivable Clerks are often entry-level professionals responsible for invoicing customers, processing payments, and maintaining accurate financial records. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks, which includes accounts receivable clerks, was about $44,000 as of 2023. This role is worth considering for those new to finance because it offers foundational experience and a pathway to more advanced positions.
Accounts Receivable Specialist
An Accounts Receivable Specialist typically handles more complex tasks like managing overdue accounts, reconciling payments, and communicating with clients to resolve billing issues. Payscale reports an average salary range between $45,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience and industry. This job is valuable for professionals who want to develop negotiation and problem-solving skills within financial operations.
Accounts Receivable Analyst
Accounts Receivable Analysts focus on analyzing aging reports, forecasting cash flow, and improving collection processes. They often use ERP software such as SAP or Oracle Financials to generate insights. Glassdoor shows salaries averaging around $60,000 to $75,000 annually, with those in larger companies or metropolitan areas earning more. This position is worth pursuing for those interested in the analytical side of finance and cash management.
Accounts Receivable Supervisor
Supervisors oversee teams of clerks and specialists, ensuring timely collections, accurate reporting, and compliance with company policies. According to Salary.com, the median salary for an Accounts Receivable Supervisor is approximately $70,000 to $85,000 per year. This role is ideal for those who want leadership responsibilities and the chance to impact departmental performance.
Accounts Receivable Manager
Managers are responsible for the entire accounts receivable function, including strategy development, process improvement, and coordination with other departments like sales and customer service. The average salary for this role ranges from $80,000 to $100,000 annually, with higher pay in industries like manufacturing and technology. This job is attractive for professionals aiming for senior-level financial management roles.
Credit and Collections Manager
This role combines accounts receivable with credit risk assessment and collections management. Credit and Collections Managers analyze customer creditworthiness, set credit limits, and lead collection efforts for delinquent accounts. The average salary is around $85,000 to $110,000 per year, according to industry salary surveys. It’s a good fit for those with strong analytical and negotiation skills who want to mitigate financial risk for their employer.
Accounts Receivable Consultant
Consultants often work on a contract basis to help companies optimize their accounts receivable processes, implement new software, or train staff. Their pay varies widely, but hourly rates typically range from $30 to $60 or more, which can translate to $70,000+ annually for full-time work. This path is worth considering for experienced professionals seeking flexibility and diverse project opportunities.
Billing Coordinator
Billing Coordinators handle invoicing accuracy, ensure timely billing cycles, and resolve discrepancies between billing and accounts receivable teams. The average salary is around $50,000 to $65,000 per year. This position is valuable for individuals who enjoy detail-oriented work and want to bridge the gap between sales, customer service, and accounting.
Accounts Receivable Accountant
Accounts Receivable Accountants typically have broader accounting responsibilities, including month-end close activities related to receivables, journal entries, and financial reporting. According to the BLS and salary data sites, their pay ranges from $55,000 to $75,000 annually. This role suits those with accounting certifications like CPA looking to specialize in receivables.
Senior Accounts Receivable Analyst
Senior Analysts lead complex financial modeling, audit support, and strategic initiatives to improve cash flow and reduce days sales outstanding (DSO). They often earn between $75,000 and $95,000 yearly, with some in high-cost areas or large corporations exceeding $100,000. This role is ideal for professionals with several years of experience seeking higher-level analytical responsibilities.
How to Choose
When deciding which accounts receivable job to pursue, consider your career goals, skill level, and preferred work environment. Entry-level roles like clerks and specialists offer solid starting points but typically pay less, while managerial and analyst roles require more experience and offer higher salaries. Industry also affects pay—finance, healthcare, and technology sectors often provide better compensation than retail or nonprofit. Additionally, certifications such as Certified Credit and Collection Professional (CCCP) or CPA can boost earning potential. Finally, think about whether you want a stable full-time role or flexible consulting opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for an accounts receivable clerk?
Median pay is around $44,000 per year, but it varies by location and company size.
Do accounts receivable managers earn significantly more?
Yes, managers typically earn between $80,000 and $100,000 annually, reflecting greater responsibility.
Is experience or certification more important for higher pay?
Both matter; experience is crucial, but certifications like CPA or CCCP can significantly increase salary.
Can accounts receivable jobs lead to other finance careers?
Absolutely. Many professionals move into broader accounting, finance analysis, or credit management roles.
Are accounts receivable jobs available remotely?
Some roles, especially analyst and consultant positions, offer remote work options depending on the company.
What industries pay the most for accounts receivable roles?
Technology, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors tend to offer higher salaries compared to retail or nonprofit.
Final Thoughts
Accounts receivable jobs offer a range of salary opportunities depending on your role, experience, and industry. From entry-level clerks earning around $44,000 to senior managers making six figures, the field provides clear paths for growth. Choosing the right position depends on your skills, career ambitions, and whether you prefer hands-on transactional work or strategic financial analysis. With the right qualifications and experience, accounts receivable can be a rewarding and stable career in finance.
Related
- What It Means When You Dream About Someone Dying Explained
- What It Means When You Dream About Someone You Like
- Itching on the Bottom of Your Foot: 10 Causes Explained