What it is
A close runs on a clock. Setting each task’s due date as a business day after month end, skipping weekends and holidays, makes the schedule explicit and shows what is late the moment it is.
Enter the month-end date and a holiday list and the sheet computes every due date. Each task has an owner, status, completion date, days late and reviewer sign-off. A summary shows progress by category, overdue tasks and the latest completion date. Task names and day numbers are a starting set to overwrite.
When to use it
- Every monthly close.
- Redesigning a close to reach a target day.
- Documenting close controls for an audit.
What’s inside
- 25 starting tasks across 14 categories
- WORKDAY due dates with a holiday tab
- Days late and reviewer sign-off flags
- Progress summary by category
Standard cited
This template follows Firm practice. It is written in our own words, except for phrases the standard requires the document to contain, with [bracketed placeholders] for client details, amounts in USD and dates as MM/DD/YYYY. Check it against the current standard and your firm’s methodology before use.
Questions
How are due dates computed?
Month-end date plus the business-day number you enter, skipping weekends and the dates on the Holidays tab.
Can I change the tasks?
Yes. Overwrite names, categories and day numbers.
Does it replace the close checklist?
It complements the month-end close checklist in this library by adding dates, owners and timing.
Related templates
- Month-End Close Checklist (Excel)
- Year-End Close Checklist (Excel)
- Bank Reconciliation Template (Excel)
- Trial Balance Template with Mapping (Excel)
Last updated 11/05/2026. All free templates.