{"id":29118,"date":"2026-03-16T16:54:06","date_gmt":"2026-03-16T16:54:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/?p=29118"},"modified":"2026-03-18T14:06:29","modified_gmt":"2026-03-18T14:06:29","slug":"what-is-a-purchase-order","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-is-a-purchase-order\/","title":{"rendered":"What is a purchase order?\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--standard entry-header--has-illustration entry-header--has-illustration--standard\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__row row align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-lg-7 col-xlg-6 entry-header__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"component component-single-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__misc text--subtitle text--uppercase text--small\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/category\/money-matters\/\" class=\"entry-header__link\">Money Matters<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"entry-title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tWhat is a purchase order? \t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"entry-header__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tLearn what a purchase order is, how it differs from an invoice, and why efficient PO management is important to your business. Keeping on top of your purchase orders\u00a0doesn&#8217;t\u00a0have to be complicated; dive in to learn how to streamline your PO process with ease.\u00a0\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"single-post-details container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"posted-on \">Published <time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-03-16T16:54:06+00:00\">16 March, 2026<\/time><\/span><span class=\"reading-time\"> min read<\/span>\n\t\t<button\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\tclass=\"social-share-button button button--icon button--secondary js-social-share-button\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-title=\"What is a purchase order?\u00a0\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-is-a-purchase-order\/\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-text=\"Please read this interesting article\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__share-label\">Share<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-label\" hidden>Copy Link<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden>Copied<\/span>\n\t\t<\/button>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/header>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author has-dark-background-color alignfull\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"co-authors\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-author-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"entry-author\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/author\/joechurchwoods\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/Joe-Yard-2-crop-350x350.jpg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" alt=\"Joe Church-Woods\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Joe Church Woods<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When your business buys goods or services, you need a clear and&nbsp;organised&nbsp;system to track those transactions.&nbsp;That&#8217;s&nbsp;where Purchase Orders (POs) come in.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A PO is a formal document that you send to a supplier to request goods or services, helping you stay in control of your finances, streamline procurement, and avoid miscommunication.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this guide,&nbsp;you&#8217;ll&nbsp;explore everything you need to know about purchase orders\u2014what they are, how they differ from invoices, the&nbsp;different types&nbsp;of purchase orders, and why&nbsp;they&#8217;re&nbsp;essential for businesses of all sizes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you run a small start-up or a large enterprise, understanding POs helps you keep your purchasing process efficient and hassle-free.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Here&#8217;s&nbsp;what&nbsp;we\u2019ll&nbsp;cover:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ?><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-purchase-order-definition-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Purchase order definition &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-what-is-the-difference-between-a-purchase-order-vs-invoice-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">What is the difference between a purchase order vs invoice? &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-example-of-a-purchase-order-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Example of a purchase order &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-types-of-purchase-orders-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Types of purchase orders &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-why-use-purchase-orders-in-business-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Why use purchase orders in business? &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-simplify-your-purchasing-process-with-digital-purchase-orders-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Simplify your purchasing process with digital purchase orders &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Make sure your business is MTD ready<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Discover how Sage Sole Trader, our free accounting software for self-employed sole traders, helps you get MTD-ready.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/products\/sage-sole-trader\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tid=\"cta-id-27200\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-button-location=\"cta_box\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Get started for free<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-166086242-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-166086242-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-purchase-order-definition-nbsp\"><strong>Purchase order definition<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ready to get a handle on purchase orders? The first step is understanding what they are and how they fit into your buying process.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A purchase order can form part of a legally binding contract once&nbsp;it\u2019s&nbsp;accepted by the supplier, subject to the agreed terms and conditions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It acts as an official request and outlines all the&nbsp;important details&nbsp;to keep things clear and&nbsp;organised. A typical PO includes:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Purchase Order Number (PON):<\/strong>&nbsp;a unique reference number to track the order.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Buyer and seller details:<\/strong>&nbsp;company names, addresses, and contact information.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Order details:&nbsp;<\/strong>a breakdown of what&nbsp;you&#8217;re&nbsp;ordering\u2014description, quantity, and price.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Payment terms:&nbsp;<\/strong>how and when payment will be made (e.g.&nbsp;payment on delivery or 30 days from invoice date)&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Delivery details:<\/strong>&nbsp;where and when the order should be shipped.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-the-difference-between-a-purchase-order-vs-invoice-nbsp\"><strong>What is the difference between a purchase order vs invoice?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many people confuse purchase orders and invoices, but they serve completely different purposes in the buying process.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So, what is the purpose of a purchase order? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It acts as a formal request from a buyer to a supplier, outlining the details of a purchase before the transaction takes place. In contrast, an invoice is sent after goods or services are delivered to request payment.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To clear things up,&nbsp;here&#8217;s&nbsp;a quick&nbsp;breakdown:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-wh-o-nbsp-issues-it-nbsp\"><strong>Wh<\/strong><strong>o&nbsp;issues it?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>PO: sent by the buyer to request goods or services.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Invoice: sent by the seller after delivering goods or services.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-when-is-it-sent-nbsp\"><strong>When is it sent?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>PO:&nbsp;sent&nbsp;before the transaction to confirm the order.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Invoice: sent after the transaction to request payment.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-s-nbsp-its-purpose-nbsp\"><strong>What&#8217;s&nbsp;its purpose?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>PO: lists order details, pricing, and terms that have been agreed upon.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Invoice:&nbsp;requests&nbsp;payment from the buyer.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-is-it-legally-binding-nbsp\"><strong>Is it legally binding?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>PO:&nbsp;yes\u2014once the seller accepts it, it becomes a contract.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Invoice: yes\u2014it confirms the amount due and payment terms based on the agreed contract.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Think of a purchase order as setting up your business&#8217;s transaction, and an invoice as&nbsp;finalising&nbsp;it by requesting payment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both documents keep things&nbsp;organised&nbsp;and protect both parties, making sure you and your seller are on the same page.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-example-of-a-purchase-order-nbsp\"><strong>Example of a purchase order<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A PO is typically a formal document with clearly labelled sections to ensure&nbsp;accurate&nbsp;transactions. Want a clearer picture of what does a purchase order&nbsp;look&nbsp;like?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s&nbsp;a purchase order example:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Imagine you&#8217;re running a clothing company, and you&#8217;re preparing for the next season&#8217;s collection.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You need to order fabric from a trusted supplier. Instead of relying on verbal agreements, you create a PO to outline exactly what&nbsp;you&#8217;re&nbsp;ordering.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s&nbsp;what a standard PO for fabric would include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-basic-details-for-tracking-nbsp\"><strong>1. Basic details for tracking<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Purchase order number: a unique identifier for this specific order.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Purchase order date: the date the order was created.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-buyer-and-vendor-information-nbsp\"><strong>2. Buyer and vendor information<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Vendor name and billing address: the supplier&#8217;s business details.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Buyer name and shipping address: your company&#8217;s details, including where the order should be delivered.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Additional&nbsp;contact information: phone numbers and email addresses for both parties.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-shipping-and-delivery-terms-nbsp\"><strong>3. Shipping and delivery terms<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Delivery date: the expected or agreed-upon date for the goods to arrive.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Shipping method: the chosen transportation method (e.g., standard freight, express delivery).&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Shipping terms: who&nbsp;is responsible for&nbsp;shipping costs and potential damage.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-order-details-nbsp\"><strong>4. Order details<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Item name: the product being ordered (e.g., &#8220;cotton fabric \u2013 light blue&#8221;).&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Item description and technical information: specifications such as material composition, weight, and texture.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Item quantity: the number of units ordered (e.g.,&nbsp;50&nbsp;metres).&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Item unit cost: the price per unit measurement (e.g., \u00a310 per&nbsp;metre).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Line total: the cost for each item category (e.g., 50&nbsp;metres&nbsp;x \u00a310 = \u00a3500).&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-cost-breakdown-and-payment-terms-nbsp\"><strong>5. Cost breakdown and payment terms<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Taxes: any applicable VAT or other relevant taxes.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Total price: the final cost after taxes and discounts.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Payment terms: how and when payment is expected (e.g., &#8220;Net 30 \u2013 payment due within 30 days&#8221;).&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-types-of-purchase-orders-nbsp\"><strong>Types of purchase orders<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The type of PO you use depends on your business needs and level of commitment to suppliers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding why and when to use each type makes sure your POs are&nbsp;accurate, efficient, and aligned with your purchasing strategy.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s&nbsp;a breakdown of the four main types of purchase orders and when to use them:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-standard-purchase-order-spo-nbsp\"><strong>1. Standard Purchase Order (SPO)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">SPO is the most common type of order, used for one-time purchases with clearly defined details. It includes exact specifications, such as quantity, price, and delivery date. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, you need to upgrade the chairs in your office and order 50 office chairs from a furniture supplier that must be delivered within 5 days.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-planned-purchase-order-ppo-nbsp\"><strong>2. Planned Purchase Order (PPO)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This type is similar to a standard PO, but with estimated order quantities and dates.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It helps your business forecast and plan future purchases, ideal when you know you need a specific product or service but not the exact delivery schedule. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, you manage a restaurant and need to estimate monthly supply orders for fresh produce.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-blanket-purchase-order-bpo-nbsp\"><strong>3. Blanket Purchase Order (BPO)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also known as standing orders, blanket purchase orders are ideal for recurring purchases over a set period. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It locks in pricing and terms upfront, but you can decide on specific quantities and delivery dates later.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your business has ongoing supplier relationships, a BPO can streamline your purchase order process and ensure you always have the supplies you need. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, you run a printing company that orders bulk paper supplies throughout the year as needed. Instead of placing multiple individual orders, a BPO simplifies the process and keeps costs predictable.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-contract-purchase-order-cpo-nbsp\"><strong>4. Contract Purchase Order (CPO)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">CPO is the most flexible type of PO. It&nbsp;establishes&nbsp;a long-term agreement with a supplier but&nbsp;doesn&#8217;t&nbsp;specify exact order quantities upfront.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You&#8217;ll&nbsp;typically use a CPO when you expect to make multiple purchases from the same supplier over time but&nbsp;don&#8217;t&nbsp;yet have firm details. Example: you handle accounting for a construction company that partners with a supplier for various building projects. Since material needs&nbsp;change&nbsp;from project to project, a CPO keeps the relationship in place without committing to specific quantities right away.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The right purchase order depends on how often you buy, your supplier relationships, and the level of flexibility you need. Whether&nbsp;you&#8217;re&nbsp;placing a one-time bulk order or setting up long-term agreements, choosing the right type\u2014such as electronic purchase orders\u2014helps keep your purchasing process&nbsp;organised, efficient, and stress-free.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-use-purchase-orders-in-business-nbsp\"><strong>Why use purchase orders in business?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No matter the size of your business, purchase orders help keep your buying process&nbsp;organised&nbsp;and efficient. Whether&nbsp;you&#8217;re&nbsp;placing a simple order or managing complex transactions, the benefits of purchase orders include greater clarity, improved accountability, and better financial control.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s&nbsp;why&nbsp;they&#8217;re&nbsp;essential for both buyers and sellers:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-benefits-for-buyers-nbsp\"><strong>Benefits for buyers<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Stay on budget\u2014pre-approved orders&nbsp;help&nbsp;prevent overspending and keep finances in check.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Better record-keeping\u2014creates a clear paper trail for tracking expenses and making audits easier.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Strong supplier relationships\u2014ensure on-time,&nbsp;accurate&nbsp;deliveries, reducing the risk of delays or mix-ups.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Protect against fraud and disputes\u2014serves as&nbsp;a legally binding agreement, helping you avoid payment issues or audit headaches.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-benefits-for-sellers-nbsp\"><strong>Benefits for sellers<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Fewer errors and misunderstandings\u2014clearly outline order details, reducing the chance of miscommunication.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Guaranteed payment security\u2014acts as a contract, making sure you get paid for the goods or services you provide.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Easier inventory management\u2014helps plan stock levels more effectively based on confirmed orders.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Faster processing and payments\u2014streamlines invoicing and&nbsp;speeds&nbsp;up the payment collection process.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-simplify-your-purchasing-process-with-digital-purchase-orders-nbsp\"><strong>Simplify your purchasing process with digital purchase orders<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As your business grows, a simple cash-for-goods system just&nbsp;won&#8217;t&nbsp;cut it. Managing multiple orders, suppliers, and payment terms can quickly become overwhelming without tools in place.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With digital purchase orders, you can automate PO creation,&nbsp;eliminate&nbsp;manual paperwork, and reduce errors. Real-time tracking ensures you never lose an invoice or struggle to keep up with your orders. Plus, it enhances supplier management, helping you secure better pricing and ensure on-time deliveries.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If&nbsp;you&#8217;re&nbsp;looking for an easier way to handle purchase orders, explore how our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/accounting-software\/purchase-orders\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">purchase order software<\/a>&nbsp;can simplify your purchasing process today.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Make sure your business is MTD ready<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Discover how Sage Sole Trader, our free accounting software for self-employed sole traders, helps you get MTD-ready.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/products\/sage-sole-trader\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tid=\"cta-id-27200\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-button-location=\"cta_box\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Get started for free<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-166086242-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-166086242-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Subscribe to the Sage Advice newsletter<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Join more than 500,000 UK readers and get the best business admin strategies and tactics, as well as actionable advice to help your company thrive, in your inbox every month.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-b1a63862-3fa0-4a5e-bb67-c76b88bbc6b8\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Subscribe now<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<section class=\"more-topics alignfull has-grey-light-background-color wp-block-sage-post-topics\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-4\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"more-topics__title h2\">Browse more topics from this article<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-8\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"post-tags__list\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/business-finances\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBusiness finances\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/cloud\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCloud technology\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/finance\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tfinance\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/make-receive-payments\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMaking and receiving payments\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/payments\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPayments\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<div class=\"alignfull wp-block-sage-related-posts\">\n\t<section class=\"related-posts card-grid has-dark-background-color\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--featured h1\">Explore more wisdom<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-0 post-30564 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations tag-business-costs tag-business-finances tag-business-performance tag-making-tax-digital-for-income-tax business_type-small-business business_type-accountants industry-construction card-post--is-clickable\"\n>\n\t<div class=\"card-post__media-wrapper\">\n\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/06\/landlord-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"A landlord outside some properties he owns\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/06\/landlord-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/06\/landlord-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/06\/landlord-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"card-post__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__label\">Recommended<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-25T11:09:14+01:00\">25 June, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">10 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h3\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__title-link\"\n\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/private-landlords-2026-need-to-know-changes\/\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tNew legal requirements for private landlords in 2026 and beyond\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"card-post__description\">\n\t\t\t\tIf you let property as a private individual then there&#8217;s been a handful of key changes in 2026\u2014plus more on the horizon. Here&#8217;s what you need to know.\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__non-featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--more h4\">More on this Topic<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-1 post-30483 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-free-guides-templates category-people-leadership category-strategy-legal-operations category-trends-insights tag-business-performance tag-business-support tag-create-business-plan tag-grow-business tag-make-receive-payments tag-mtd-accountants tag-making-tax-digital-for-income-tax tag-payments tag-performance-management business_type-small-business business_type-accountants\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/the-hidden-hours-behind-late-payments\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-607477465-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-607477465-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-607477465-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-607477465-1214x810.jpg 1214w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" class=\"card-post__meta-icon svg-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path d=\"M11.988 2.989a.75.75 0 0 0-.739.761v10.689l-1.72-1.72a.75.75 0 0 0-.957-.099.75.75 0 0 0-.315.776c.031.146.104.28.211.384l3 3a.75.75 0 0 0 1.06 0l3-3a.76.76 0 0 0 .231-.533.74.74 0 0 0-.22-.538q-.108-.106-.247-.164c-.139-.058-.191-.057-.291-.056s-.198.022-.29.061-.174.097-.243.169l-1.72 1.72V3.75a.76.76 0 0 0-.22-.541.76.76 0 0 0-.542-.22zM5.75 8.5C4.24 8.5 3 9.74 3 11.25v7C3 19.76 4.24 21 5.75 21h12.5c1.51 0 2.75-1.24 2.75-2.75v-7c0-1.51-1.24-2.75-2.75-2.75h-3a.76.76 0 0 0-.537.216.74.74 0 0 0-.223.535.76.76 0 0 0 .223.535.74.74 0 0 0 .537.216h3c.699 0 1.25.551 1.25 1.25v7a1.24 1.24 0 0 1-1.25 1.25H5.75a1.24 1.24 0 0 1-1.25-1.25v-7c0-.699.551-1.25 1.25-1.25h3a.76.76 0 0 0 .537-.216.74.74 0 0 0 .223-.535.76.76 0 0 0-.223-.535.75.75 0 0 0-.537-.216z\" \/><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-19T11:24:18+01:00\">19 June, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">8 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tThe hidden hours behind late payments\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-2 post-30318 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters tag-bookkeeping tag-payments business_type-small-business business_type-medium-sized-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-is-ap-automation\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1128201585-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1128201585-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1128201585-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1128201585-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-02T16:58:53+01:00\">2 June, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">11 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tAccounts payable automation: How it works, key benefits, and why your business needs it\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-3 post-30313 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters tag-bookkeeping tag-payments business_type-small-business business_type-medium-sized-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-is-an-automated-billing-system\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-580503469-1-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"Running a business\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-580503469-1-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-580503469-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-580503469-1-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-02T15:54:42+01:00\">2 June, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">10 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tWhat is an automated billing system?\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-4 post-15795 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters tag-accountant-accounting tag-accountant-automation tag-brexit-business tag-business-finances business_type-small-business business_type-medium-sized-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-is-account-reconciliation\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-1325244864-1-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"man in office\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-1325244864-1-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-1325244864-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-1325244864-1-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-02T15:28:18+01:00\">2 June, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">10 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tAccount reconciliation: What it is and best practices\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn what a purchase order is, how it differs from an invoice, and why efficient PO management is important to your business. Keeping on top of your purchase orders\u00a0doesn&#8217;t\u00a0have to be complicated; dive in to learn how to streamline your PO process with ease.\u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1847,"featured_media":16464,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_sage_video":false,"post_featured_image_hide":false,"sage_hide_published_date":false,"sage_hide_read_time":false,"sage_hide_share_buttons":false,"_pwl_sage_podcast_buzzsprout_src":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[135,51,164,25,311],"business_type":[4],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[],"persona":[71,73,74,75],"imagine_tag":[289,287,77,98,312,269,109,298],"coauthors":[670],"class_list":["post-29118","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-money-matters","tag-business-finances","tag-cloud","tag-finance","tag-make-receive-payments","tag-payments","business_type-small-business"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-gb","author_name":"Joe Church Woods","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1313131450.jpg","imagine_tags":{"289":"Accounting and Payroll","287":"Accounting Individual","77":"Accounting software","98":"Business continuity","312":"Payments","269":"Purchase automation","109":"Small business","298":"Small Suites"}},"distributor_meta":false,"distributor_terms":false,"distributor_media":false,"distributor_original_site_name":"Sage Advice UK","distributor_original_site_url":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog","push-errors":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/29118","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/1847"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=29118"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/29118\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/16464"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=29118"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=29118"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=29118"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=29118"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=29118"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=29118"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=29118"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=29118"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=29118"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=29118"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}