What is a common task performed by a bookkeeper?

A common task performed by a bookkeeper is to handle bank feeds and reconcile bank accounts. This process involves ensuring that the company's financial records align with bank statements. By managing bank feeds, a bookkeeper imports transactions directly from the bank into the accounting software, which helps maintain accuracy. Reconciliation involves comparing the bookkeeping records with the bank statements to identify any discrepancies, ensuring that all transactions are accounted for.

This task is fundamental for maintaining the integrity of financial data and providing a clear view of the company's cash flow. It allows businesses to track their spending, detect errors or fraudulent activity promptly, and ensure that their financial reporting is consistent and reliable. In contrast, preparing tax returns exclusively, providing financial consulting services, and analyzing financial forecasts are typically functions associated with accountants or financial analysts rather than bookkeepers, who focus more on day-to-day financial record-keeping tasks.