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Accounting Terms
Bank Reconciliation
Definition
The process of matching your accounting records with your bank statements.
Overview
Reconciliation ensures your records match reality. It identifies discrepancies, missing transactions, and errors. Regular reconciliation is essential for accurate books.
Example
Monthly bank reconciliation reveals a $200 charge not recorded in the books—an annual software renewal.
Best Practices
Reconcile monthly at minimum. Investigate and resolve all discrepancies promptly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Infrequent reconciliation
Ignoring discrepancies
Not investigating differences
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I reconcile?
Monthly at minimum. Weekly for businesses with many transactions.