How to Write an Accountant Cover Letter (With Template)

Updated 1 April 2023

Including an engaging cover letter that impresses prospective employers may improve your chances of securing an accountant position. A well-written cover letter complements your resume and is an effective way to highlight skills, experiences and credentials in accounting and finance. Learning what to include in a cover letter and how to write one for your accounting job application can help you get interviews. In this article, we explain what an accountant cover letter is, discuss the steps required to write one and share a template and example to help guide you.

Please note that none of the companies, institutions or organisations mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.

What is an accountant cover letter?

An accountant cover letter is a document that introduces you to the hiring manager or recruiter during the job application process. Even though some employers don't request for cover letters, candidates who provide one can distinguish themselves from other applicants and impress the hiring manager. An accountant cover letter allows the reader to better understand your skills and qualifications in accounting. It explains previous accounting-related work experience, details the relevant skills and highlights any achievements that can showcase your ability to perform an accounting job.

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How to write an accountant cover letter

Follow these steps to learn how to write an accountant cover letter:

1. Analyse the job posting

It's prudent to read the job posting and analyse the employer's requirements and expectations. Depending on the job, hiring managers typically use keywords to specify the type of skills and qualifications that they desire in an accountant. For instance, employers generally prefer candidates to have accounting and auditing experience and knowledge of tax and financial regulations. In addition, you can use the information in the job posting to conduct further research on the company and the hiring manager or recruiter.

This allows you to understand more about the company's values, culture and workplace, which can be valuable information to include in your cover letter.

2. Start with your name and contact information

Start your cover letter by providing your name, contact information and your location of residence. This enables the recruiting manager to easily identify who you are and contact you if they want to schedule an interview. Depending on the job requirements, some employers may want to know your location to ensure you're legally eligible and qualified according to financial standards to serve as an accountant. Next, put the date that you're writing the letter so the recruiter knows when you applied for the job.

3. Address the letter appropriately

The next step is to address the letter by stating the company's name and address. Check the corporate website or job posting for information on the hiring manager's contact details. Alternatively, you can try contacting the company to find out the name of the recruiter or hiring manager. Once you have this information, use a formal salutation or business greeting to address the recipient. If you're unsure of the person's name, you may use Dear Hiring manager.

4. Introduce yourself

Your first paragraph serves as an introduction and helps to attract the attention of potential employers. Begin by stating the accountant position you're applying for and explain why you're interested in joining this company. This demonstrates your sincerity in joining the organisation and shows respect for the company, its brand and its values. For instance, you can emphasise the values of integrity and respect and describe how they've been instrumental in your career growth as an accountant. Give a succinct overview of your qualifications and a quick summary of why you're the right fit for the position.

This provides a strong lead-in to the body of your cover letter and keeps the hiring manager or recruiter interested.

5. Share your background

Use this paragraph to share your background and attempt to distinguish your skills, abilities and background from other candidates. Summarise the relevant experiences in accounting, such as the type of companies you worked for, their nature of business and other projects you've been involved with in the field. If you've earned any specific accounting accomplishments or financial credentials like awards or professional recognition, you may mention them in your cover letter.

Some employers may look for specific industry certifications such as a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) or Certified Financial Analyst (CFA) that validate your level of knowledge and understanding of the field. Having these certifications can show companies that you're qualified for the job.

6. Emphasise your skills

After highlighting your qualifications, emphasise on your core accounting skills and explain your proficiency with them. This can include both soft skills and hard skills that employers want in a candidate. Refer to the job posting and include as many skill-related keywords that correspond to the job description in your cover letter as possible. For instance, you may share how you helped a company to save tax expenses by using a different method of revenue recognition.

Accountants frequently work with other individuals including sales, marketing and other departments in the company to corroborate financial figures and performance. They have good interpersonal communication skills and are generally meticulous in their job. These are relevant skills to an accounting position.

7. Close professionally

Express your gratitude to the hiring manager and thank them for their time and consideration. Reaffirm your interest in the role and summarise how your expertise and credentials can benefit the firm. Indicate that you look forward to speaking with them and advancing to the next stage in the hiring process. Close professionally by using Yours Sincerely or Best Regards and sign with your name after.

8. Proofread your cover letter

Proofread your cover letter to look for areas of improvement. Make sure your paragraphs are the right length and correct any spelling or grammar mistakes. Keep paragraphs to no more than five lines. Read your cover letter out loud and check if it contains all the relevant information about you. Alternatively, you can ask a trusted friend or family member to read your cover letter and provide their feedback. More importantly, ask them if the cover letter accurately portrays you and is professional in tone.

Cover letter template

The model shown is for illustration purposes only, and may require additional formatting to meet accepted standards.

Use this template to help you write your own cover letter for an accounting position:

[First name] [Last name], [Degree or certification if applicable]
[Phone number] | [Email address] | [Location]

[Date]

[Company name]

Dear [Hiring manager's first name] [Hiring manager's last name],

Paragraph 1

[Express excitement for the position including the role title and the company name]. [Introduce yourself by explaining why you're applying for the job and how the job aligns with your career goals and what specifically draws you to the company].

Paragraph 2

[Explain your relevant experience and qualifications without repeating what's in your resume]. [Highlight one to two relevant achievements with facts and data when possible]. [Explain why you'd be a good fit for the company]. [Optional - address employment gap or career transition].

Paragraph 3

[Express gratitude]. [Summarise qualification]. [Restate interest in role]. [Call to action + availability and preferred contact method]

[Complimentary close],
[Signature]

Cover letter example

You can review this example of an accountant cover letter and try to follow it as a guide:

Nathaniel Chan, Certified Public Accountant
+65 9555 5555 | natchan54@email.com | Singapore

13 February 2023

NeuNexis Global Pte Ltd

Dear Ms. Georgina De Cruz,

I'm writing to express my interest in applying for the Accountant position at NeuNexis Global Pte Ltd. As a motivated and organised professional with a strong passion for financial management and analysis, I'm thrilled by the prospect of joining NeuNexis Global, a leading provider of legal services to the region. I subscribe to the company values of innovation and growth and I'm confident that my skills, experience and eagerness to learn makes me a good fit for your company culture.

My accounting experience, combined with my attention to detail and analytical skills, has equipped me with the ability to effectively manage financial data and produce accurate reports. In my previous role as an accountant at AcornTown Ltd, I managed the company's financial records and ensured the proper recording and reporting of all transactions. I played a key role in preparing monthly and annual financial statements and developing financial policies and procedures to improve efficiency and accuracy. One of my proudest achievements was completing a complex financial analysis project, which resulted in a 20% increase in revenue for the company.

As a Certified Public Accountant for the last six years, I believe my qualifications and commitment to excellence can be of great value to NeuNexis. I look forward to an interview to better discuss my skill set and share how I can add value to your organisation. Thank you for your consideration.

Yours sincerely,
Nathaniel Chan