High School

A high school diploma is usually sufficient for a beginning billing clerk, although business courses in computer operations and bookkeeping are also helpful. In high school, take English, communication, and business writing courses. Computer science and mathematics courses will also be helpful. Training in spreadsheet programs such as Microsoft Excel will be invaluable. Some companies test their applicants on math, typing, and computer skills, and others offer on-the-job training.

Postsecondary Training

Community colleges, junior colleges, and vocational schools often offer business education courses that can provide you with additional training.

Certification

Online learning platforms, professional associations, and colleges and universities offer certificate programs in office administration, business, accounting, and related fields that help students and current clerks build their skills. Contact these organizations for more information.

Other Education or Training

The International Association of Administrative Professionals provides a variety of continuing education workshops, seminars, and classes. Contact the association for more information.

Certification or Licensing

No specific certification or licensing is available for billing clerks. The International Association of Administrative Professionals offers certification for general administrative professionals. Contact the association for more information.

No experience is needed to work as a billing clerk, but those with prior work experience will increase their chances of landing a job, getting promoted, and possibly earning higher pay.

If you hope to be a billing clerk, you should have excellent mathematical, organizational, and time-management skills; be detail oriented; and be able to concentrate on repetitive tasks for long periods of time. In addition, you should be dependable, honest, and trustworthy in dealing with confidential financial matters. The ability to work as a member of a team is also a key skill for billing clerks.