Month-end close is a key accounting process that keeps financial records accurate and audit-ready. Each month, accountants reconcile accounts, verify transactions, and prepare reports to ensure the organization’s books reflect its true financial position. A structured, repeatable checklist turns this complex process into a smooth, efficient workflow that helps teams minimize errors, reduce stress, and deliver reliable financial data.

An effective close process begins with a clear schedule, defined responsibilities, and consistent reconciliation practices. Each step, from reviewing accounts payable and payroll to conducting ASC 606 revenue reviews and flux analyses, builds toward complete financial statements. Standardizing and documenting these steps allows teams to work faster with better accuracy. It also strengthens internal controls, reduces risk, and provides a clear audit trail, ensuring compliance with U.S. GAAP and other reporting standards.

While traditional methods rely heavily on manual work, automation tools are redefining how accounting teams approach month-end. Close management platforms like NetClose integrate directly with NetSuite to automate reconciliations, reporting, and task management. The result is a faster, more reliable close process that frees teams from repetitive manual work and empowers them to focus on analysis and strategy instead. With automation and the right checklist, accounting teams can close the books confidently every month, without the overtime.

Ready to simplify your close process? Download this free month-end close checklist from COCPA Preferred Partner, Netgain, to streamline every step.

Netgain is a COCPA  Silver Preferred Partner. Explore all of our Preferred Partners here.