Companies use the matching process in accounts payable to verify information in different documents with the invoice to ensure that the amounts and other details are accurate. A company can use a 2-way, 3-way, or 4-way matching process based on the level of detail it needs verified.
The most detailed form of matching is the 4-way matching, which includes matching the purchase order, receipt of goods, supplier invoice, and inspection report.
Continue reading to find out how it works and how it can benefit businesses.
The 4-way matching process in accounts payable includes matching invoices, purchase orders, goods received notes (GRN), and inspection reports (for quality tolerance) before payment. Once all four components match, the invoice is entered into the enterprise’s accounting software.
The 4-way matching process ensures that the accounts payable department pays for only valid and accurate invoices.
The 4-way invoice matching process includes matching the amounts and quantity between the following four documents:
The 4-way matching process involves comparing these four documents for consistency and accuracy.
The company approves the invoice, only if it matches the specific criteria. If any of these criteria are unmet, the company puts the invoice on hold. The company requires resolution before it makes the payment.
However, there are always tolerance levels in place. Tolerance levels are acceptable limits for the differences between the invoice and other documents. A company can set tolerance levels for quantity, price, amount, and quality.
This process helps to prevent overpayments, duplicate payments, fraud, and errors in accounts payable.
Following are tolerance levels for the 2-way, 3-way, and 4-way matching processes.
2-Way Matching
2-way matching is a basic form of data matching that involves the matching of the purchase order with the invoice to ensure that the tolerance levels are met as follows,
3-Way Matching
The 3-way matching process checks whether the invoice matches with the purchase order and GRN, and adds another criteria to the previous list:
4-Way Matching
4-way matching checks whether the invoice information matches with the purchase order, GRN, and inspection report, and includes an additional criteria to the 3-way matching process:
Here’s an example of 4-way matching in accounts payable to understand the process:
Invoice matching can help your business in the following ways:
4-way matching is an advanced functionality that can be automated to help companies save time and money, and detect variances and fraud. Here’s how enterprises benefit when they automate their accounts payable matching process:
The 2-way matching process involves matching only the purchase order and invoice. In the case of 3-way matching, the invoice is also matched with the goods receipt note besides the purchase order. In 4-way matching, the goods are further matched with the inspection report.
Matching Type | Definition | Documents | Benefits | Challenges |
2-way matching | Process of verifying that the information on the purchase order matches that on the invoice |
|
| May not detect the fraud in quality and quantity |
3-way matching | The process of verifying information on the purchase order and goods received note with that on the invoice |
|
|
|
4-way matching | The process of verifying information on the invoice with that on the purchase order, goods received note and the inspection report |
|
|
|
While 4-way matching in the accounts payable process ensures your transactions' accuracy and compliance and helps prevent fraud, it requires more time and resources. While it may resolve payment discrepancies, some disputes between the documents might crop up. Therefore, weigh the benefits and challenges and consider using automation tools to simplify the process.
What are the four components of 4-Way Matching?
The four components of 4-Way Matching are:
Purchase Order (PO): A document that outlines the details of the goods or services to be purchased.
Goods Receipt: A document acknowledging the receipt of the goods or completion of services.
Invoice: A bill issued by the supplier indicating the amount owed for the goods or services provided.
Payment: The actual payment made to the supplier.
What is the purpose of 4-Way Matching?
The purpose of 4-Way Matching is to ensure accuracy and prevent errors or fraud in accounts payable. It helps verify that the goods or services received match the purchase order, that the invoice amount is correct, and that the payment made is accurate and authorized.
What are the benefits of implementing 4-Way Matching?
Implementing 4-Way Matching in accounts payable offers several benefits, including:
Minimizing the risk of overpayment or duplicate payments.
Reducing the likelihood of fraudulent invoices or unauthorized payments.
Improving accuracy in financial records and reporting.
Enhancing vendor relationships by resolving discrepancies promptly.
What happens if a discrepancy is found during the 4-Way Matching process?
If a discrepancy is found during the 4-Way Matching process, it is important to investigate and resolve the issue before making the payment. This may involve communicating with the supplier, revising the purchase order, updating the invoice, or conducting a thorough review of the goods or services received.