Final answer:
Verify transactions and ensure they are accurately recorded to match the bank statement and the accounting software. Sum up the balances for Exports, Imports, and Balance to check against the current account balance.
Step-by-step explanation:
If the beginning balance on your bank statement doesn't match the Beginning Balance field in the Begin Reconciliation window, the first step you should take is to verify the transactions that make up the first number under Balance. Ensure all transactions on your bank statement are accurately recorded and reflected in your accounting software. Often, discrepancies arise due to uncleared checks, deposits in transit, or errors in recording transactions.
Once you've confirmed that all transactions are recorded, proceed to sum up your columns for Exports, Imports, and Balance to determine if the final balance number matches your current account balance. If the figures still do not match, you may need to look for any additional errors or omissions in your records or on the bank statement itself.