How Many Hours a Week Do Accountants Work?
Accountants typically work around 40 hours per week during normal periods, but hours can increase to 50–70+ per week during busy seasons such as tax filing and audits. Bookkeeping roles are more consistent, while tax and audit roles experience significant workload spikes.
How Many Bookkeepers Do You Need
Average Hours Accountants Work Per Week
- Standard work weeks → 35 to 45 hours
- Busy season (tax/audit) → 50 to 70+ hours
- Corporate accounting roles → more stable hours
- Public accounting → highest workload variability
The exact hours depend on role, firm size, and season.
The reality
- Normal weeks: Around 35 to 45 hours for most in-house and corporate roles.
- Busy seasons: 50 to 70+ hours are common during tax deadlines, audits, and year-end reporting.
- Risk to businesses: delays, slower responses, and missed closes.
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Why Accountants Work Long Hours
Accountants work longer hours during specific periods due to:
- Tax filing deadlines
- Year-end financial reporting
- Audit requirements
- Client deadlines and compliance work
These time-bound responsibilities create seasonal workload spikes.
Smoothing the peaks
- Outsource steady work like monthly close, accounts payable, and receivable. This approach helps businesses avoid delays during peak accounting periods and ensures financials are always up to date.
- Use a fractional team with coverage guarantees.
- Keep a tight close calendar and automate approvals.
Bookkeeper vs Accountant Work Hours
- Bookkeepers → consistent 30 to 40 hours per week
- Accountants → variable hours depending on deadlines
- CPAs (tax/audit) → highest workload during peak seasons
This is why bookkeeping services are more stable and predictable compared to accounting roles.
Explore our full range of bookkeeping services designed for small businesses looking for accuracy, simplicity, and CPA-reviewed financials.
What This Means for Your Business
If your accountant is overloaded during peak periods, your financial reports may be delayed. Businesses that rely only on seasonal accounting support often experience:
- Slow financial reporting
- Delayed tax preparation
- Limited visibility into cash flow
Consistent bookkeeping helps avoid these issues.
FAQs
How many hours do accountants work per week?
Most accountants work 40 hours per week on average, with extended hours during tax season.
Do bookkeepers work the same hours as accountants?
No, bookkeepers typically have more consistent schedules without seasonal spikes.
Why do accountants work more hours during tax season?
Because of strict filing deadlines, audits, and compliance requirements.
Will my books lag during tax season?
Not with a dedicated fractional team.
Do we get backups if someone is out?
Yes-our team model includes redundancy.
Can we scale hours up/down?
Absolutely-adjust with volume.
RBO gives you consistent coverage year-round-no busy-season slowdowns. Consistent bookkeeping ensures your financials stay accurate regardless of seasonal workload spikes.
Related reading
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