{"id":29110,"date":"2025-03-28T11:52:53","date_gmt":"2025-03-28T15:52:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/?p=29110"},"modified":"2025-04-08T06:09:27","modified_gmt":"2025-04-08T10:09:27","slug":"what-is-a-po-number-on-an-invoice","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-a-po-number-on-an-invoice\/","title":{"rendered":"What is a PO number on an invoice?"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color\">\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-us\/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 PO number on an invoice?\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\t\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 class=\"col col-8 col-lg-4 entry-header__image\">\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"entry-header__thumbnail js-hero-section\">\n\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1086590348-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"entry-header__thumbnail-image\" alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1086590348-1440x810.jpg 1440w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1086590348-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1086590348-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1086590348-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1086590348-2048x1152.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1440px) 100vw, 1440px\" \/>\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\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=\"2025-03-28T11:52:53-04:00\">March 28, 2025<\/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 PO number on an invoice?\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-a-po-number-on-an-invoice\/\"\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<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-us\/blog\/author\/yassirmalik\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/Yassir-Malik.jpg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" alt=\"yassir-malik-profile-picture\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Yassir Malik<\/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\">Managing your business finances often means dealing with invoices and purchase orders during business transactions. But do you really understand their purpose?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each document has specific components that play a key role in making sure every step of the process is managed efficiently. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Among these components, PO numbers are essential for linking procurement to payment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So, what is a PO number on an invoice, who\u2019s responsible for them, and how should they be used?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This article covers why they\u2019re important and explores practical tips on how to create and apply them effectively to optimize your business processes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Here&#8217;s what we cover:<\/strong><\/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-what-you-need-to-know-about-purchase-orders\" data-level=\"2\">What you need to know about purchase orders<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-key-information-every-purchase-order-should-have\" data-level=\"2\">Key information every purchase order should have<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-what-is-a-po-number\" data-level=\"2\">What is a PO number?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-what-is-the-difference-between-a-po-number-and-an-invoice-number\" data-level=\"2\">What Is the difference between a PO number and an invoice number?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-how-do-you-create-a-po-number\" data-level=\"2\">How do you create a PO number?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-where-to-include-a-po-number-on-an-invoice\" data-level=\"2\">Where to include a PO number on an invoice<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-examples-of-po-numbers\" data-level=\"2\">Examples of PO numbers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-tips-for-efficient-purchase-order-numbering\" data-level=\"2\">Tips for efficient purchase order numbering<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-the-role-of-financial-software-in-automating-po-numbers\" data-level=\"2\">The role of financial software in automating PO numbers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-final-thoughts\" data-level=\"2\">Final thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\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\">Small business survival toolkit<\/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>Get your free guide, business plan template, and cash flow forecast template to help you run your business and achieve your goals.<\/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-aee5a8c2-281d-42bb-8da2-eda5b62f63c6\"\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>Download your free toolkit<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__downloads\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t10,548 readers have downloaded this toolkit\t\t\t\t<\/div>\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-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1327127856-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Female hands working on a laptop\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1327127856-1440x810.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-what-you-need-to-know-about-purchase-orders\"><strong>What you need to know about purchase orders<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Getting familiar with purchase orders is the first step toward managing them effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A purchase order (PO) is a formal document a buyer (like your business) sends to a seller, detailing what products or services that you are ordering, along with important specifics such as quantities, prices, and delivery terms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once accepted by the seller, the PO becomes a legally binding contract\u2014making sure both parties are on the same page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">POs help streamline procurement, prevent misunderstandings, and maintain accountability. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By using them effectively, you can keep transactions clear, reduce errors, and simplify your invoice management.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-key-information-every-purchase-order-should-have\"><strong>Key information every purchase order should have<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check that your purchase orders include all the details needed to make the agreement between you and the seller clear and prevent misunderstandings during the transaction process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s what you\u2019ll typically find in a purchase order:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Buyer\u2019s and seller\u2019s contact information<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>PO number for easy identification<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Item descriptions, quantities, and prices<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Payment terms and methods<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Delivery address and expected delivery date<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Any additional terms or conditions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-a-po-number\"><strong>What is a PO number?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A PO number is a unique identifier assigned to each purchase order, helping you track and manage transactions with ease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Think of it as a reference code that keeps everything organized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">PO numbers make it simple for buyers and sellers to trace and manage purchase orders, ensuring a smooth and efficient procurement process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They also play a key role in linking purchase orders to invoices, helping to streamline billing and payment workflows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many businesses need their PO number to be included on invoices before approving payments, so it really is an essential component in keeping financial transactions and business relationships hassle-free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The importance of a PO number in business transactions<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">PO numbers are more than just reference codes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They play a key role in keeping your business operations organized and efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s why they matter:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-improved-tracking\"><strong>Improved tracking<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">PO numbers make it easy to locate specific transactions, even when dealing with high volumes of business activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-error-reduction\"><strong>Error reduction<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By linking purchase orders and invoices, businesses can avoid common issues such as duplicate payments, incorrect delivery, or billing disputes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-facilitates-financial-audits\"><strong>Facilitates financial audits<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">PO numbers create a clear transaction trail, simplifying both internal and external audits while ensuring compliance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-enhanced-communication\"><strong>Enhanced communication<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Using PO numbers properly ensures buyers and sellers reference the same transaction details, minimising the risk of errors and misunderstandings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As we\u2019ve seen, PO numbers connect purchase orders and invoices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The process begins when your business creates a purchase order (PO) to request specific goods or services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once the order is fulfilled, the seller sends an invoice requesting payment, which should have your PO number on it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This means you can quickly match their invoice to your purchase order, making sure all the billing details align.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Using PO numbers properly will streamline approvals and help make sure that there are no payment delays for your seller, keeping transactions seamless and your seller happy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\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\">Small business survival toolkit<\/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>Get your free guide, business plan template, and cash flow forecast template to help you run your business and achieve your goals.<\/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-aee5a8c2-281d-42bb-8da2-eda5b62f63c6\"\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>Download your free toolkit<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__downloads\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t10,548 readers have downloaded this toolkit\t\t\t\t<\/div>\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-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1327127856-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Female hands working on a laptop\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1327127856-1440x810.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-what-is-the-difference-between-a-po-number-and-an-invoice-number\"><strong>What Is the difference between a PO number and an invoice number?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both numbers are unique identifiers, but they serve different purposes in the transaction process:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-po-number\"><strong>PO number<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Assigned by the buyer, this number tracks purchase orders and is referenced throughout the procurement process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-invoice-number\"><strong>Invoice number<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Issued by the seller, this number uniquely identifies the invoice and is primarily used to track billing and payments. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The invoice number helps to maintain accurate financial records and proper cash flow management.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding the distinction between these numbers will help you improve financial tracking and avoid confusion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-do-you-create-a-po-number\"><strong>How do you create a PO number?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Creating a PO number means giving each purchase order a distinct reference code, making transactions easy to track and manage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your business will typically have two options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Manually assigning PO numbers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Using an automated system.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best approach depends on your business needs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider factors like the size of your organisation, the volume of transactions you handle, and your operational goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choosing the right method and using it properly will ensure your processes are efficient and accurate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-manual-po-number-system\"><strong>Manual PO number system<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re part of a small business with a lower volume of transactions, manually assigning PO numbers can work well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s how to do it effectively:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Choose a consistent format (such as PO-YYYY-0001)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increment numbers are sequential for each new purchase order<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep a centralized log to track and reference all PO numbers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To create an effective PO numbering system, it\u2019s important to incorporate useful identifiers, such as the year, department, or project into the format.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This approach keeps things clear and makes organising and tracking purchase orders easier. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You should also make sure that PO numbers are unique and never reused. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This will help prevent confusion and errors in your record-keeping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-automated-po-number\"><strong>Automated PO number<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you work for a larger business, or a company handling high volumes of transactions, it\u2019s worth exploring dynamic, automated systems such as smart <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/accounting-software\/purchase-orders\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">purchase order software.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This type of tool automates the procurement process to save you time, improve accuracy, and boost profitability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the right software, you\u2019ll gain better financial control and easily stay on top of your inventory. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ll also have access to real time, actionable insights and reports, empowering you to make smarter decisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Automated software solutions take the hassle out of managing PO numbers by automatically generating them based on preset rules and formats. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This not only simplifies your procurement process but makes life easier for your finance and operations teams, freeing them up to focus on more important, high-value tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-where-to-include-a-po-number-on-an-invoice\"><strong>Where to include a PO number on an invoice<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you are the provider of a product or service and creating an invoice, placing the buyer\u2019s PO number in the right spot helps keep things clear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best place for it is near the top of your invoice\u2014alongside other key details such as the invoice number and date. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keeping it in a prominent position makes it easy for buyers to find, reducing the risk of payment delays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are a few tips on how to apply your buyer\u2019s PO number to your invoice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Place the PO number in the invoice header section for maximum visibility<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Highlight the PO number using bold text or a different font style, making it easy to spot<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>To prevent processing errors, always double check that the PO number on your invoice is an exact match for the one provided on the buyer\u2019s purchase order.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-examples-of-po-numbers\"><strong>Examples of PO numbers<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">PO numbers can follow various formats depending on how your business has structured its purchasing process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The format you choose should make it easy to track and organize transactions while aligning with your internal record-keeping system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are some common examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Sequential numbers:<\/strong> PO-001, PO-002, PO-003<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Data-based codes:<\/strong> PO-2024-001 (year included for easy tracking)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Departmental codes:<\/strong> PO-MKT-001 (indicating the marketing department)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Project codes:<\/strong> PO-PROJ123-001.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tips-for-efficient-purchase-order-numbering\"><strong>Tips for efficient purchase order numbering<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Looking for an easy way to keep your PO numbering system organized? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are a few simple tips to help everything run smoothly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Stick to a standard format: <\/strong>use a consistent structure, such as adding the year or department, to make PO numbers clear and easy to follow.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Embrace automation: <\/strong>save time and reduce errors by using software that automatically generates and tracks PO numbers for you.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Centralize your records: <\/strong>keep all your PO numbers in one place\u2014like a central log or database\u2014so they\u2019re easy to access when needed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Check in regularly: <\/strong>review your system regularly to make sure it still fits your business needs, or adapt it to facilitate any changes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\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\">Small business survival toolkit<\/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>Get your free guide, business plan template, and cash flow forecast template to help you run your business and achieve your goals.<\/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-aee5a8c2-281d-42bb-8da2-eda5b62f63c6\"\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>Download your free toolkit<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__downloads\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t10,548 readers have downloaded this toolkit\t\t\t\t<\/div>\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-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1327127856-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Female hands working on a laptop\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1327127856-1440x810.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-the-role-of-financial-software-in-automating-po-numbers\"><strong>The role of financial software in automating PO numbers<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Manually managing PO numbers can be time consuming and easily lead to errors in your financial paperwork. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/accounting-software\/purchase-orders\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">online purchasing software<\/a> that includes built-in purchase order management, you can automate your PO numbering effortlessly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These systems automatically generate PO numbers and seamlessly integrate them into your procurement and invoicing systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s how accounting software enhances your purchase order management:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-improved-transaction-tracking\"><strong>Improved transaction tracking<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">PO numbers are automatically linked to corresponding invoices and payments, making reconciliation faster and more accurate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-real-time-updates\"><strong>Real-time updates<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Any changes to purchase orders are instantly reflected in the system, ensuring records stay current and reliable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-customisable-rules\"><strong>Customisable rules<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can tailor PO numbering to fit your needs\u2014whether by project code, department identifier, or date marker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-saves-time\"><strong>Saves time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Software instantly assigns and records PO numbers, reducing manual admin and freeing up your team to focus on more strategic tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-boosts-efficiency\"><strong>Boosts efficiency<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Automation reduces repetitive admin work, optimising workflows and improving overall productivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-final-thoughts\"><strong>Final thoughts<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Proper use of PO numbers on purchase orders and invoices isn\u2019t just a formality. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s an effective way to keep your business transactions accurate, transparent, and efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you understand how PO numbers work, you can keep your team organized, reduce errors, and maintain clear financial records. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you\u2019re managing a small business or overseeing a larger operation, streamlining your purchase order process is key to smoother procurement and payment workflows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-ready-to-elevate-your-purchase-order-system\">Ready to elevate your purchase order system? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Explore <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-US\/accounting-software\/invoicing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">online invoicing software<\/a> with built-in PO management features. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Save time, improve accuracy, and help your team work smarter, not harder.<\/strong><\/p>\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 our 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>Get our latest business advice delivered directly to your inbox.<\/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-ab515c6e-7e90-4c2f-a67e-113872516e8b\"\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<\/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-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Working from home with tea in hand\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1440x810.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 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class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/growing-a-business\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGrowing a business\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-us\/blog\/hub\/staying-competitive\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tStay competitive\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-us\/blog\/hub\/working-capital\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tworking capital\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 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class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-09-30T07:32:53-04:00\">September 30, 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\">12 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-us\/blog\/accounts-payable-reconciliation\/\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tThe ultimate guide to accounts payable reconciliation\u00a0\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\tWhen your accounts payable records match what your suppliers expect, you avoid costly errors and keep cash flow predictable. AP reconciliation is what makes that possible.\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-22429 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters tag-accounting-101 tag-business-intelligence business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/a-guide-to-generally-accepted-accounting-principles-gaap\/\"\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-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1254783885-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1254783885-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1254783885-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1254783885-1440x810.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=\"2026-09-30T06:11:54-04:00\">September 30, 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\">12 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 GAAP? Accounting principles defined\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-30327 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-accountants category-strategy-legal-operations tag-accounting-101 tag-boss-your-business tag-business-intelligence tag-cash-flow tag-compliance tag-growing-a-business tag-tax business_type-small-business business_type-accountants business_type-growing-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-a-deferred-tax-liability\/\"\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-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1329013231-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1329013231-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1329013231-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1329013231-1215x810.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=\"2026-09-29T12:11:03-04:00\">September 29, 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\">14 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\tDeferred tax liability: A practical guide\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-27939 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations tag-boss-your-business tag-business-intelligence tag-compliance tag-growing-a-business tag-small-business tag-staying-competitive business_type-small-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/invoice-vs-receipt\/\"\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-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-814559004-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-814559004-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-814559004-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-814559004-1440x810.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=\"2026-09-28T06:31:39-04:00\">September 28, 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\tInvoice vs. receipt: What\u2019s the difference and why does it matter?\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-27959 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-growth-customers category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations category-trends-insights tag-accounting-101 tag-business-intelligence tag-digital-transformation tag-ecommerce tag-small-business business_type-small-business business_type-accountants business_type-growing-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-an-electronic-invoice\/\"\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-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1338373163-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1338373163-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1338373163-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1338373163-1215x810.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=\"2026-09-28T05:34:23-04:00\">September 28, 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\">9 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 e-invoicing? Benefits and disadvantages\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>Discover why PO numbers are important and explores practical tips on how to create and apply them to optimize your business processes.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1774,"featured_media":9370,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_is_cornerstone":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-noindex":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-nofollow":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_schema_page_type":"","_yoast_wpseo_schema_article_type":"","_sage_video":false,"_yoast_wpseo_focuskeywords":"","_yoast_wpseo_keywordsynonyms":"","_yoast_wpseo_primary_category":"43","sage_membership_post_content_type":"article","sage_membership_post_featured_video_id":"","sage_membership_post_video_type":"trailer","sage_membership_post_featured_video_duration":"","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":[43,44],"tags":[195,4,299,153,155,431],"business_type":[40],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[],"persona":[96,97,95],"imagine_tag":[468,462,230,231],"coauthors":[509],"class_list":["post-29110","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-money-matters","category-strategy-legal-operations","tag-boss-your-business","tag-business-intelligence","tag-cash-flow","tag-growing-a-business","tag-staying-competitive","tag-working-capital","business_type-small-business"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-us","author_name":"Yassir Malik","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1086590348.jpg","imagine_tags":{"468":"Grow your business","462":"Payments","230":"Small business","231":"Start up business"}},"distributor_meta":false,"distributor_terms":false,"distributor_media":false,"distributor_original_site_name":"Sage Advice US","distributor_original_site_url":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog","push-errors":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/29110","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/1774"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=29110"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/29110\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/9370"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=29110"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=29110"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=29110"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=29110"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=29110"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=29110"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=29110"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=29110"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=29110"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=29110"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}