International Accounting Day

The International Accounting Day, observed annually on November 10, honours the accounting profession and its vital role in business, governments and communities.

History of International Accounting Day

Accounting as a practice dates back thousands of years—with records of bookkeeping found in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt.
The specific date of November 10 is chosen to commemorate the 1494 publication by Luca Pacioli of Summa de Arithmetica, Geometria, Proportioni et Proportionalita, which included the first known description of double-entry bookkeeping.
The modern observance developed to raise awareness of the profession, support those in it and spotlight careers in accounting.

Why is International Accounting Day important?

Accountants ensure that financial records are accurate, transparent and compliant—which supports trust in businesses, governments and nonprofits. Without their work, decision-making, regulation and even personal financial planning would be far more difficult.
Additionally, the day encourages recognition of accounting as a profession with global impact and invites people considering it as a career to learn more. It also highlights the evolution of accounting with technology, education and professional standards.

• It recognises the crucial work accountants do behind the scenes.
• It promotes public understanding of financial literacy and record-keeping.
• It encourages aspiring professionals to explore accounting career paths.
• It signals the evolving nature of accounting with technology and global systems.
• It draws attention to how sound accounting supports businesses, economies and communities.

How to Celebrate International Accounting Day

Because this day celebrates the profession and its contributions, it’s fitting to celebrate it—by acknowledging accountants you know, learning more about the profession, or promoting financial literacy.

• Thank an accountant you know—send a note, treat them to coffee or share appreciation.
• Take a short course or webinar on accounting basics, bookkeeping or financial planning.
• If you run a business, review your bookkeeping and accounting practices and thank your accounting team.
• Use social media to highlight an accounting fact or the work of accountants, with hashtag #InternationalAccountingDay.
• Share with someone the history of double-entry bookkeeping or how accounting supports everyday life.

International Accounting Day Dates Table