Do Accountants Work on Weekends: Can They Make Up for Free Weekends by Working Extra Hours?

Whether accountants work on weekends depends on various factors, including their job roles, the industry, and the time of year. This article explores the nuances of an accountant's typical work schedule, the flexibility they may have, and the typical variations in different industries. Understanding these aspects can help you better manage your expectations and plan your work schedule effectively.

Typical Work Schedule: Standard Business Hours

The majority of accountants follow a standard business hour schedule, Monday through Friday. This routine allows for a well-structured environment that accommodates work-life balance. However, during peak periods such as tax season or month-end close, they may need to work additional hours, including weekends.

Flexible Schedules: Meeting Workload Needs

Some accounting firms or companies offer flexible work arrangements, enabling accountants to manage their time better. Accountants might choose to work more hours at the beginning of the week to have more free time over the weekends, aiding in achieving their goal of work-life balance. This flexibility is heavily dependent on workload and employer policies.

Industry Variations: Public vs. Corporate Accounting

Public Accounting: During the tax season, which typically spans from January to April, public accountants may work extended hours, including weekends. This is driven by the tax filing deadlines and the complex tasks involved in preparing and filing taxes.

Corporate Accounting: In contrast, those in corporate accounting often have a more predictable schedule with fewer demands during typical business hours. Corporate accountants typically focus on day-to-day financial activities, monthly closes, and other routine tasks that do not require weekend work.

Remote and Hybrid Work: Adjusting to New Norms

With the increasing prevalence of remote and hybrid work, some accountants may have greater flexibility in structuring their hours. This allows for potential four-day workweeks or extended hours at the beginning of the week. The ability to adjust work schedules can significantly impact an accountant's ability to handle their workloads without overworking.

Conclusion: Workload and Expectations

The number of hours an accountant works can vary widely. It’s dependent on the company's staffing, workload, management’s expectations, and non-negotiable reporting deadlines. You could find yourself working 70-80 hour weeks during peak periods, or you might maintain a more traditional 9-to-5 schedule, depending on your specific situation.

Accountants working for large companies with dedicated accounting departments generally do not work weekends. However, independent or small firm accountants often work late and even into weekends during key periods, such as the first two weeks in April, the end of March, and the first two weeks in October, due to major tax filing deadlines.