What Is a Full Charge Bookkeeper? Duties, Skills & Salary Guide

A full charge bookkeeper is responsible for managing all aspects of a company’s accounting, including accounts payable and receivable, reconciliations, and financial reporting. Unlike a regular bookkeeper, who may handle only specific tasks, a full charge bookkeeper oversees the complete accounting cycle to ensure accuracy and compliance with all regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

End-to-End Bookkeeping

Full charge bookkeepers manage accounts payable and receivable, perform bank reconciliations, prepare monthly financial statements, and maintain cloud accounting systems to ensure accurate, real-time financial records.

Payroll and Government Remittances

They handle payroll processing, deductions, T4/T5 filings, WSIB compliance, and provide clear payroll reporting to management, keeping employee payments and obligations accurate and timely.

Tax Planning and Filing

Full charge bookkeepers support corporate and personal tax planning, manage HST/GST compliance, and liaise with the CRA to provide audit support and ensure regulatory compliance.

Financial Advisory & Cash Flow

They assist with budgeting and forecasting, monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), and analyze profitability to help businesses make informed financial decisions.

Audit Support & Internal Controls

Full charge bookkeepers maintain internal controls and organized filing systems, coordinate with external CPAs or auditors, and ensure year-end compliance and reporting is accurate and on time.

Skills & Qualifications of a Full Charge Bookkeeper

A successful full charge bookkeeper combines technical expertise, analytical ability, compliance knowledge, and strong interpersonal skills to manage end-to-end bookkeeping efficiently. These skills ensure accurate financial management and reliable reporting for any business.

Technical Skills:

Proficiency in general ledger systems, payroll software, and invoicing tools allows a full charge bookkeeper to maintain precise financial records and streamline daily accounting tasks.

Analytical Skills:

Experience in reconciliations, variance analysis, and cash flow forecasting enables informed financial decision-making and supports the overall health of business operations.

Compliance Knowledge:

A thorough understanding of tax filing requirements, HST/GST regulations, and CPA compliance ensures all financial records meet Ontario and federal standards and are audit-ready.

Soft Skills:

Strong communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail allow full charge bookkeepers to collaborate effectively with management, external CPAs, and internal teams, maintaining accountability and precision in all tasks.

By integrating these skills, a full charge bookkeeper delivers end-to-end bookkeeping services that are accurate, proactive, and dependable, making them a vital component of any growing company’s financial operations.

Our accountants specialize in end-to-end bookkeeping, payroll, tax planning, and financial advisory, providing personalized solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs. They combine technical expertise with practical business knowledge, helping small and medium-sized businesses streamline operations, optimize cash flow, and stay audit-ready.

Hiring Tips for Businesses

Bringing a full charge bookkeeper on board can transform how your business handles finances, but choosing the right person requires careful thought.

When to Hire:

If your business is growing, struggling to keep up with payroll, tax filings, or month-end closings, or simply needs one person to oversee all your accounting, it’s the right time to hire a full charge bookkeeper.

Be cautious of candidates who lack experience with end-to-end bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance, or those who are unfamiliar with modern accounting software. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and clear communication are essential qualities for success.

A full charge bookkeeper is an investment in your business. Consider what their expertise will save in time, errors, and stress—the right hire often pays for itself by keeping your finances accurate and helping your business grow.

Tools & Technology

Modern full charge bookkeeping relies heavily on the right tools. Using secure cloud accounting platforms allows businesses to access financial data in real time, track transactions accurately, and collaborate easily with their accountant from anywhere. These platforms also support automated bank feeds, digital invoicing, and fast month-end closings, making daily financial management more efficient and reliable.

As businesses grow, they may choose between basic accounting software and more advanced ERP systems. Basic platforms work well for small operations that need simple tracking and reporting. ERP systems are better suited for larger companies that require integrated inventory, payroll, and financial reporting in one centralized system.

Automation plays a key role in end-to-end bookkeeping efficiency. Automated workflows reduce manual data entry, minimize errors, and ensure tasks like payroll, invoicing, and tax remittances are completed on time. With the right technology in place, businesses gain better control over their finances while saving valuable time and resources.

FAQs:

What does a full charge bookkeeper do?

A full charge bookkeeper manages the complete bookkeeping cycle of a business. This includes recording daily transactions, handling accounts payable and receivable, preparing monthly financial statements, managing payroll, supporting tax filings, and keeping records organized for year end compliance. They provide business owners with clear financial information to support better decision making.

How is a full charge bookkeeper different from a controller?

A full charge bookkeeper focuses on the hands-on management of daily and monthly accounting operations. A controller usually works at a higher management level and is responsible for financial strategy, policy setting, and high level reporting. For many small and mid sized businesses, a full charge bookkeeper delivers the same financial stability at a more practical cost.

When should a business hire one?

A business should consider hiring a full charge bookkeeper when transaction volumes increase, compliance requirements become harder to manage, or when financial reporting needs to be more structured and timely. It is also a smart move when business owners want to step back from daily accounting tasks and focus more on growth.

How do they help small business compliance and growth?

A full charge bookkeeper ensures accurate record keeping, timely tax filings, and proper payroll and remittance management. This reduces compliance risks and avoids penalties. With reliable financial reports and cash flow tracking, business owners can make informed decisions, plan ahead, and build a stronger foundation for long term growth.