A cashier has several important duties to complete at the end of each work day. This ensures that the register is properly closed out, receipts are organized, and the store is left in good order for the next business day. Here is an overview of the key tasks a cashier will perform as part of their closing procedures.
Counting and Recording Register Totals
One of the most important parts of a cashier’s end of day duties is to accurately count their cash drawer and record the totals. This ensures that the amount of cash matches up with the sales processed throughout the day. Here are the key steps involved:
- Count up the bills and coins in the cash drawer. Many registers provide an automatic tally, but cashiers should still manually count as well to verify.
- Print out the register tape receipt that shows the total sales for the day. This provides a record of all transactions.
- Compare the cash drawer total with the sales totals on the register tape. They should match up – if not, the cashier will need to identify and resolve any discrepancies.
- Record the totals on the balance sheet for the register. This provides written documentation of the amounts for accounting purposes.
- If the totals match up, the cashier will prepare a bank deposit with the cash and checks.
Properly counting and reconciling register totals is a key responsibility, as it ensures the store’s revenues are accurately tracked.
Organizing Receipts and Records
Cashiers are also responsible for organizing all receipts and records from the day’s sales. This includes:
- Sorting paper receipts by date and attaching the matching register tape.
- Filing any voided receipts, returns, or other transaction paperwork.
- Discarding any duplicate or unnecessary receipts and papers.
- Bundling together credit card receipts and charge slips from the day’s transactions.
- Placing all bundled receipts and documents into designated storage for accounting.
Proper filing of these documents ensures that store records are organized and can be easily referenced in case of any order inquiries or tax audits.
Restocking Supplies
In order to help prepare for the next day, cashiers will also need to restock any supplies that are running low at the register. This may include:
- Refilling blank receipt tape rolls.
- Refilling signature slip and credit card receipt blanks.
- Replenishing paper bag supplies.
- Ensuring there are adequate quantities of any forms kept at register.
- Restocking pens, rubber bands, staplers, and any other stationery.
Keeping adequate supplies fully stocked helps ensure the register area is ready for business at the start of the next day.
Cleaning Register Area
Maintaining proper cleanliness of the register area is another important part of a cashier’s closing duties. This involves activities such as:
- Wiping down countertop surfaces.
- Removing trash and debris.
- Cleaning the register screen and keyboard.
- Using disinfecting wipes on any shared equipment.
- Sweeping or vacuuming under the counter as needed.
- Ensuring any display racks or impulse buy items are neatly arranged.
A clean and orderly workspace promotes better organization and efficiency when the store re-opens for business.
Reconciliation of Register Totals
At the end of the day, the cashier will need to complete a reconciliation of their register totals and transactions. This important process verifies that all sales and payments have been processed and accounted for correctly. Here are the key steps in reconciling register totals:
- Print an end-of-day (EOD) report from the register that shows total sales broken down by payment type (cash, check, credit/debit card, etc.).
- Compare the EOD report totals to the cash drawer count and credit card batch totals completed earlier.
- Identify any discrepancies – for example the EOD total sales may not match the amount of cash on hand after counting the drawer.
- Research and resolve any discrepancies found by reviewing register tapes, void slips, and other paperwork.
- Once reconciled, the cashier and a manager will sign off on the EOD report for accounting purposes.
Carefully completing this reconciliation ensures all transactions and payments have been processed and documented accurately.
Securely Storing Cash Drawers
Once registers have been closed out for the day, cashiers must securely store the cash drawers so they are safely locked away outside of business hours. There are several methods for securing drawers:
- Locking drawers directly in the register if they contain a built-in vault.
- Removing drawers and placing them in a locking bank bag.
- Storing drawers in a safe or vault in the manager’s office.
- Some businesses may contract with armored truck pick-up services.
Properly securing the cash after stores close reduces the risk of theft and promotes safety.
Shift Reporting to Manager
At the very end of their shift, cashiers will meet briefly with a manager or supervisor to review end-of-day activities. This reporting helps keep management informed on key details such as:
- Register totals and any overages or shortages.
- Status of bank deposits prepared.
- Any customer complaints or issues that arose.
- Any supplies needing restocking or issues with equipment.
- Any other pertinent details from the day’s operations.
Good communication and reporting helps the manager address any issues and ensure the store runs smoothly across multiple shifts.
Conclusion
A cashier’s closing duties are extremely important for a store’s daily operations. Counting register drawers, reconciling totals, organizing paperwork, restocking supplies, and secure cash storage helps set their business up for success on the following day. With proper end-of-day procedures, cashiers can ensure accuracy, security, and cleanliness in preparation for the next business day.