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What is the month-end close?
The month-end close is the set of tasks a finance team completes after each month ends, such as reconciling accounts, recording accruals and reviewing results, so the books are final.
Last updated 6 October 2026
Short answer
The month-end close is the checklist a finance team works through after each month ends so the books are accurate and final: reconciling bank and card accounts, collecting missing receipts, recording accruals, reviewing revenue and expenses, and signing off. Most teams aim to finish within the first one to two weeks of the next month.Typical close tasks
- Reconcile bank, card and payment accounts.
- Collect missing receipts and code expenses.
- Record accruals and prepaid expenses.
- Review revenue, expenses and variances.
- Controller review and sign-off.
Why closes run late
Most delays come from waiting: on receipts, on approvals and on task owners who didn't know a task was due. A shared checklist with owners, due days and reminders removes most of the waiting.
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How long should a close take?
It depends on company size and complexity. Shortening it usually starts with removing the waiting, not working faster.
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