Hard to Find Accounting Jobs in January and December? Here’s Why and What to Do
If you’re an accountant or finance professional looking for a new job during the holiday season, you may have noticed something frustrating: it’s hard to find accounting jobs in January and December.
But why is this the case? And more importantly—what can you do about it?
In this guide, we’ll explore:
- Why the job market slows down during the holiday months
- Seasonal hiring trends in accounting and finance
- Smart strategies to continue your job search effectively
- When the hiring picks up again
Why Are Accounting Jobs Hard to Find in December and January?
Year-End Holiday Season
December is filled with company holidays, employee vacations, and end-of-year downtime. Hiring managers and HR teams are often out of office, causing job postings and interviews to slow down.
End-of-Year Budget Freezes
Many companies finalize budgets for the next fiscal year in late Q4. Until budgets are approved, hiring for new accounting roles may be paused.
Busy Season for Accountants
For public accountants and firms, January kicks off the tax season. Teams focus on client work, not hiring. Firms may also wait to assess client needs before staffing up.
Internal Transitions
Year-end is a popular time for internal promotions, reassignments, or restructuring, which may delay external hiring until organizational changes are finalized.
December and January Hiring Stats in Accounting
- Job postings for accounting roles can drop by 25–40% in December compared to peak months like September or March.
- Interview scheduling delays are common from mid-December through the first week of January.
- Hiring often rebounds sharply in February, especially in public accounting and tax-related roles.
Best Accounting Roles to Target in December & January
While hiring slows down overall, some accounting jobs still post during these months, particularly for:
- Seasonal tax preparers
- Year-end financial reporting specialists
- Audit staff and contractors
- Accounts payable/receivable roles in retail
- Interim and temp positions
Tip: Many companies post short-term contracts or temp-to-hire roles to help with year-end close or seasonal workload spikes.
How to Optimize Your Accounting Job Search During Slow Months
Polish Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Use this downtime to optimize your resume for ATS, update your LinkedIn, and highlight achievements like:
- Budgeting and forecasting
- Year-end closing processes
- ERP systems (QuickBooks, NetSuite, SAP)
Network Actively
Attend:
- Virtual or local accounting networking events
- LinkedIn groups and industry forums
- Alumni meetups or CPA chapter gatherings
Don’t be afraid to reach out directly to hiring managers with a warm intro message.
Apply Strategically
Focus on:
- Contract roles that can lead to full-time positions
- Niche finance jobs (e.g., payroll, compliance, forensic accounting)
- Jobs at startups or nonprofits who hire year-round
Work with Specialized Recruiters
Finance and accounting recruiters often have access to unlisted or upcoming roles, especially for tax season and busy periods.
Prepare for the Hiring Surge in February
January is ideal for preparation. Target roles posted late January to early February, when most companies resume hiring with new budgets.
Best Months to Find Accounting Jobs
| Month | Hiring Activity | Notes |
| January | Low to Medium | Some hiring, mostly prep month |
| February | High | Start of busy season recruitment |
| March–May | High | Strong hiring, especially in public accounting |
| June–August | Medium | Slower, but ongoing hiring |
| September | High | Budget planning, new projects |
| October–November | Medium | Wrap-up roles, planning for next year |
| December | Low | Holiday season + year-end freeze |
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Conclusion
Yes, it’s true: finding accounting jobs in January and December can be challenging due to holiday closures, budgeting cycles, and shifting priorities. But that doesn’t mean you should stop your search.
Use this time wisely:
- Update your materials
- Network with intent
- Apply to short-term roles
- Position yourself for February and beyond
With patience and smart strategy, you can turn the “slow season” into your career-launching opportunity.
FAQs
1. Why are accounting jobs harder to find in December?
Because of holidays, year-end closing, and budget freezes, many companies pause hiring during this period.
2. Is January a good time to start looking for accounting jobs?
Yes! While fewer jobs post in early January, it’s the perfect time to prepare for the hiring surge in February.
3. Should I apply for contract accounting roles during the holidays?
Absolutely. Seasonal and temp jobs can lead to full-time opportunities later.
4. What accounting jobs are available during the year-end?
Tax prep, payroll, year-end audit support, and financial reporting roles are in demand.
5. When does accounting hiring pick up after the holidays?
Late January to early February is typically when budgets reset and hiring accelerates.
Also read: Accounts Payable Aging Report: What It Is, How It Works, and Why It Matters
