A billing coordinator is a financial professional who manages the invoicing and payment collection processes for a company. They are a part of the accounts receivable department, ensuring the business receives money owed for products or services. This role is focused on maintaining a steady cash flow by managing client accounts and securing timely payments.
What Does a Billing Coordinator Do?
A billing coordinator is tasked with managing the complete billing cycle for a company. This begins with gathering all necessary data to create an invoice, including product details, service hours, and any applicable discounts. They prepare and send these invoices to clients and make sure they are delivered on time.
Once invoices are sent, the coordinator’s focus shifts to tracking payments and managing accounts receivable. They monitor client accounts for incoming funds and follow up on any overdue payments. This often involves direct communication with clients to inquire about payment status or to negotiate payment plans.
Another part of the role involves maintaining accurate records. Billing coordinators update customer files with payment histories, outstanding debts, and any communication regarding their accounts. They also identify and resolve any billing discrepancies by collaborating with other departments to verify order details.
Finally, these professionals often prepare reports for management. By analyzing billing data, they can identify trends, track accounts receivable, and provide insights into the company’s revenue cycle. This reporting helps leadership make informed financial decisions.
Essential Skills for a Billing Coordinator
- Attention to Detail: Meticulousness is important for a billing coordinator. They must carefully review billing data to spot any inconsistencies that could lead to overcharging or undercharging clients. This precision ensures the accuracy of every invoice.
- Communication Skills: Effective communication is necessary for liaising with clients and internal teams. Coordinators must clearly explain invoice details to customers and professionally address any questions or disputes that arise.
- Mathematical Proficiency: A strong grasp of mathematics is needed for this role. Billing coordinators calculate invoice totals, including taxes and discounts. Their comfort with numbers ensures that all financial documents are accurate.
- Tech-Savviness: Familiarity with technology, especially billing and accounting software, is a common requirement. Proficiency with programs like QuickBooks or ERP systems allows for efficient invoice generation and payment tracking.
- Problem-Solving Abilities: The ability to resolve issues is a large part of the job. When billing discrepancies or payment delays occur, a coordinator must investigate the root cause and find a solution.
- Organizational Skills: These are needed to manage multiple client accounts and deadlines simultaneously. A billing coordinator must keep track of various invoices, payment schedules, and client communications in a structured manner.
How to Become a Billing Coordinator
The path to becoming a billing coordinator begins with a solid educational foundation. Most employers require at least a high school diploma or an equivalent. However, many companies prefer applicants with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business administration.
Practical experience is also highly valued. Many billing coordinators start in entry-level positions like billing clerk or accounting assistant to gain hands-on experience. These roles provide exposure to invoicing and basic financial tasks. Positions in specialized industries like healthcare or law may also require industry-specific knowledge.
While not always mandatory, professional certifications can make a candidate more competitive. For those in healthcare, a credential like the Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) can be advantageous. The Certified Legal Billing Professional (CLBP) is valuable for those in law firms.
Billing Coordinator Salary and Job Outlook
The earning potential for a billing coordinator varies based on experience, industry, and location. As of July 2025, the average hourly pay in the United States is approximately $26.25, an annual salary of around $54,600. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals can earn significantly more.
The career outlook for billing coordinators is positive. As long as companies provide goods and services, there will be a need for professionals to manage the billing process. This stability makes it a reliable career choice with growth opportunities across various industries.
A role as a billing coordinator can also serve as a launchpad for advancement into more senior financial positions. With experience, a coordinator can progress to roles such as Billing Supervisor, Billing Manager, or Accounts Receivable Manager. Some may also choose to specialize in a particular industry, becoming consultants or analysts.