Role overview
An accountant records, classifies and reports a company's financial transactions, ensuring the books are accurate and compliant. In India they typically maintain ledgers, reconcile accounts, process invoices and payroll, prepare financial statements, handle GST and tax filings, and support audits — providing the reliable financial records that managers and regulators depend on for decisions and compliance.
A accountant usually has around 0–6 yrs of experience and earns typically ₹2.5L–₹9L/yr in India. The day-to-day blends Bookkeeping, Tally, GST & TDS and more — this page gives you a ready-to-use accountant job description template you can copy, plus the exact skills and salary employers expect.
Key responsibilities
A accountant is typically responsible for:
- Record and classify daily financial transactions in the ledger
- Reconcile bank, vendor and customer accounts
- Process accounts payable, receivable and invoices
- Prepare monthly, quarterly and annual financial statements
- Handle GST, TDS and other tax computations and filings
- Assist with payroll processing and statutory compliance
- Support internal and statutory audits with documentation
- Maintain accurate records in accounting software like Tally or Zoho Books
Requirements & qualifications
To succeed as a accountant, candidates usually need:
- Bachelor's degree in commerce, accounting or finance (B.Com)
- Knowledge of accounting principles, GST and TDS
- Proficiency in accounting software (Tally, Zoho Books) and Excel
- Strong attention to detail and numerical accuracy
- Understanding of statutory compliance and audit support
Accountant skills
The most in-demand accountant skills on listings today:
Not sure which of these you're missing? A free OnJob profile runs your CV against every live accountant job and shows the exact skill gaps standing between you and a 100% match.
Typical salary & experience
Typical salary (India)
typically ₹2.5L–₹9L/yr
Experience range
0–6 yrs
These are typical ranges and vary by city, company and skills. For live, role-specific pay data, see the OnJob salary guide.
Accountant job description — FAQs
What does an accountant do?
An accountant records and reports a company's financial transactions, keeps the books accurate, reconciles accounts, processes invoices and payroll, prepares financial statements, and handles GST and tax filings — ensuring the business stays financially organised and compliant.
What is the difference between an accountant and a chartered accountant?
An accountant handles day-to-day bookkeeping and financial records, typically with a B.Com. A chartered accountant (CA) is a certified professional who can audit accounts, sign off statutory filings and provide expert tax and advisory services, requiring the rigorous CA qualification.
What software do accountants use in India?
Tally is the most widely used accounting software in India, along with Zoho Books, QuickBooks and SAP at larger firms. Strong Excel skills are essential alongside any accounting package.
How much does an accountant earn in India?
Freshers typically earn ₹2.5L–₹4L per year, mid-level accountants ₹4.5L–₹7L, and senior accountants ₹8L+. Check our salary guide for current ranges.