Tips for Beating the Accounting ‘Busy Season’ Blues  

2023 is just now winding down, and that can only mean one thing: the dreaded ‘busy season.’ Yes, that’s because December-January is the most difficult and stressful accounting season, and can be a source of real anxiety for accountants. So, how can accounting professionals overcome this difficult time and rise above their high-intensity workload? As a learning program designed to help professionals in this sector achieve their very best, we’re well-positioned to advise others on how they can beat the blues. In this article, we’re sharing our top tips for busy season accounting. 

Why Is this Such a Busy Time for Accountants?

But before we move on we need to ask one thing: why is December-January such a busy time for accountants? There are several factors at play here:

First of all, Q1 of a new year is usually when companies end their financial year — meaning thay the books are closed on December 31st year end. At this point, auditors and tax accountants have to race and work overtime to meet deadlines such as corporation and income tax payments, as well as self-assessments and payments of CIS, NICs and PAYE to HMRC.

In addition to this, many accountants also have to deal with the unwanted hassle of protracted BACS cycles when processing payments — since many banks are shut over the Christmas holidays and New Year’s. This means that accountants are forced to squeeze in even more work into a shorter period of time, which only adds to their burden. 

Beating the Blues

So, with the above issues in mind, how can accountants stay positive and effectively manage their packed schedules for this hectic tax season accounting?

Automation

More and more accountants are embracing the possibilities that artificial intelligence (AI) can provide. AI accounting tools allow accountants to automate certain tedious manual entry jobs, which frees up their tasks and allow them to focus on higher-order tasks in their workstack.

Prioritise

At this time of year, when so much work is being thrown at accountants left, right, and centre, it’s vital that they establish what tasks are the most-important, and which can safely be de-emphasised. If you’re uncertain about this, speak to management first so they can provide you with a clear timeline. If they don’t have one to give you, make  them understand that nobody can do everything at once, and that you need a timeline in order to focus your time and attention most effectively. 

Delegate

It’s also important to collaborate and delegate within your team. No one accountant can take on all jobs at once. Instead, each aspect of the Q1 workload should be broken down, and responsibilities should be delegated based on each worker’s fitness to the task. In this way, accountancy teams can ensure that they are working as efficiently as possible within their set time limit. 

Set boundaries

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, is for accountants to set boundaries for their workloads. During this stressful time, the last thing any accountant wants is for others to take advantage of them and heap more work on their plates. Try to advocate for yourself and manage the expectations of others. 

Overcome Burnout with INAA

INAA is passionate about helping accountants from all walks of life improve their skills and overcome adversity in their careers. We truly care about helping professionals adapt to ethical and legal changes, meet certification requirements, and beat their workload. We’re also dedicated to enhancing our members’ career opportunities and fostering the professional and personal growth needed to be a winning leader.
As an association with more than 140 members worldwide, INAA firmly believes that continuing education is not just an option but a strategic investment in one’s career and the key to long-term success. Interested? Apply for your membership today.