Cash Book

Term from Bookkeeping industry explained for recruiters

A Cash Book is a basic but important financial record that tracks all money moving in and out of a business. Think of it like a checkbook or diary that records every cash transaction. Bookkeepers use it to keep track of daily cash transactions, including both money received (like customer payments) and money spent (like paying bills). It's one of the fundamental tools in bookkeeping, similar to other financial records like ledgers or journals. You might also hear it called a "cash journal" or "cash register book." It's essential for maintaining accurate financial records and helps businesses know their cash position at any time.

Examples in Resumes

Maintained daily Cash Book entries for a retail business with 100+ daily transactions

Reconciled Cash Book records with bank statements on a monthly basis

Trained junior staff in proper Cash Book maintenance and cash handling procedures

Implemented digital Cash Book system, transitioning from manual Cash Records

Typical job title: "Bookkeepers"

Also try searching for:

Bookkeeper Accounts Clerk Accounting Assistant Financial Record Keeper Accounts Administrator Junior Accountant

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle discrepancies between the Cash Book and bank statement?

Expected Answer: A senior bookkeeper should explain the reconciliation process, including identifying outstanding checks, deposits in transit, and bank fees, then making necessary adjustments to align both records.

Q: How would you set up a Cash Book system for a new business?

Expected Answer: Should discuss choosing between manual or digital systems, establishing daily recording procedures, setting up internal controls, and training staff on proper documentation.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What information should be recorded in a Cash Book entry?

Expected Answer: Should mention date, description of transaction, reference numbers, amount, whether it's money in or out, and running balance. Should also discuss the importance of keeping supporting documents.

Q: How often should Cash Book entries be reconciled with bank statements?

Expected Answer: Should explain monthly reconciliation process, importance of regular checking, and how to maintain accuracy between statements.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between cash receipts and cash payments in a Cash Book?

Expected Answer: Should explain that cash receipts are money coming into the business (income) and cash payments are money going out (expenses), with basic examples of each.

Q: Why is it important to keep receipts for Cash Book entries?

Expected Answer: Should discuss the importance of documentation for accuracy, audit trails, and tax purposes, explaining basic filing systems for receipts.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic cash transaction recording
  • Filing and organizing receipts
  • Simple bank reconciliations
  • Data entry accuracy

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex reconciliations
  • Digital bookkeeping software use
  • Error detection and correction
  • Report generation

Senior (5+ years)

  • System setup and improvement
  • Staff training and supervision
  • Internal control implementation
  • Advanced financial reporting

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to explain basic cash handling procedures
  • No experience with bank reconciliations
  • Poor attention to detail in number work
  • Lack of understanding about basic financial documentation

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