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What is a 3 Way Match in Accounts Payable?

What is a 3 Way Match in Accounts Payable?

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Three-way matching in accounts payable is a process aimed at ensuring accuracy and integrity in financial transactions. This method involves cross-referencing three essential documents including  the purchase order (PO), the receipt of goods, and the invoice. 

This process ensures accuracy and accountability in accounts payable, minimizing errors and fraud risks.

What is Three Way Matching in Accounting?

Three way matching serves as a key accounting process, ensuring accuracy and integrity within a business’ financial transactions. This method acts as a mechanism within accounts payable systems, harmonizing invoices, purchase orders, and receiving documents.

How Does the 3 Way Matching Process Work?

Three-way match starts with comparing the details on the purchase order with those on the receipt of goods. This step ensures that the goods or services were indeed received as ordered and in the expected quantity and quality. Once this is confirmed, the next phase involves matching the invoice with the purchase order and the receipt.

Steps to 3 Way Matching for Accountants

  1. Receipt of Invoice: Receive invoice from supplier.
  2. Comparison: Compare invoice details with purchase order.
  3. Verification: Cross-reference invoice with receiving report.
  4. Resolve Discrepancies: Address any discrepancies found.
  5. Approval and Payment: Approve invoice for payment.
  6. Recording: Record transaction details in accounting system.

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Is 3 Way Invoice Matching Right for Your Restaurant?

Overall, implementing three way matching in restaurant accounting enhances financial accuracy, controls costs, strengthens vendor relationships, ensures compliance, and improves operational efficiency.

Benefits of 3 Way Matching in Your Restaurant Accounting Process

  1. Accuracy: Minimizes errors in recording quantities, prices, and items received.

  2. Cost Control: Identifies discrepancies to avoid overpaying for goods or services.

  3. Fraud Prevention: Reduces the risk of overbilling or invoicing for undelivered goods.

  4. Vendor Relationships: Builds trust and transparency by addressing discrepancies promptly.

  5. Compliance: Ensures adherence to internal controls and auditing standards.

  6. Efficiency: Streamlines accounts payable operations, reducing manual reconciliation.

Restaurant365 bridges the gap between accounting and operations by centralizing all data, helping restaurant operators to become more efficient, accurately forecast, and tackle any challenge or opportunity with speed and accuracy.