Free Excel template
Month-end close checklist for accounting firms
A practical Excel checklist for the recurring work behind each client’s close. Assign tasks, track what is waiting, and make the work visible to the reviewer.
A starting point for your team
Keep the work moving.
Start with a ready-made list, then adapt it to the client, engagement and way your firm works.
- Inside
- 29 starting tasks
- Track
- Client, period, owner, due date, status, reviewer and notes
- Format
- Excel workbook · .xlsx
- 01Reconcile bank and credit card accounts
- 02Tie payroll reports to the general ledger
- 03Review balance sheet and unresolved items
- 04Record approval and close the period according to firm policy
What is in the month-end close checklist?
The workbook starts with 29 editable tasks, from gathering statements through reconciliations, adjustments, review and delivery. Each row has a client reference and period, so your team can keep the work for several clients in one list.
- Prepare: scope, deadlines, statements and missing records
- Reconcile: cash, credit cards, receivables, payables and payroll
- Review: adjustments, balance sheet accounts and changes in results
- Deliver: reviewer checks, client questions and close approval
How to use the checklist
Copy the starter rows for each client and reporting period, then enter the client reference and period on each row. Remove or mark tasks outside the engagement as N/A, and add the steps specific to that client.
Assign an owner and due date. Use the status dropdown to distinguish work in progress from items waiting on someone else, and record the reviewer and next action. Filter the table to focus on one client or the tasks that need attention.
Make the close easier to review
Keep the underlying reconciliation and workpapers in your firm’s approved system. Use notes for the next action or a safe reference, not sensitive account numbers or document contents.
The checklist organizes work; your firm decides the required accounting procedures, evidence and approval for each engagement.
Frequently asked questions
Is the month-end close checklist free?
Yes. Download the Excel workbook without an account or email address, then adapt it for your firm.
Can I track more than one client?
Yes. Copy the starter task rows for each client and period, fill down the client reference and period on each row, and filter the list. Expand the Excel table when you add rows if Excel does not do so automatically.
Does the workbook reconcile accounts automatically?
No. It tracks the work and review. For bank transaction matching, use our separate bank reconciliation tool.
Beyond the spreadsheet
Which workflow should be easier to repeat?
Bring your use case. We’ll explore the scope and fit together.