{"id":31288,"date":"2025-06-13T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-06-13T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/?p=31288"},"modified":"2025-06-19T07:53:42","modified_gmt":"2025-06-19T11:53:42","slug":"outstanding-checks-bank-reconciliation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/outstanding-checks-bank-reconciliation\/","title":{"rendered":"What are outstanding checks in bank reconciliation? How to identify, record, and handle them"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--has-illustration entry-header--has-illustration--generic\">\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 are outstanding checks in bank reconciliation? How to identify, record, and handle them\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>\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=\"2025-06-13T09:00:00-04:00\">June 13, 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 are outstanding checks in bank reconciliation? How to identify, record, and handle them\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/outstanding-checks-bank-reconciliation\/\"\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-us\/blog\/author\/joechurchwoods\/\">\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\/2025\/05\/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\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reconciling your bank statements is fundamental to keeping your business\u2019s finances on track.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you\u2019re a small business owner, a staff accountant, or a bookkeeper, one issue you\u2019re likely to run into is handling outstanding checks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So, what are outstanding checks in <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-bank-reconciliation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">bank reconciliation<\/a><\/strong> exactly?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Simply put, these are checks your business has written and recorded in your accounting system\u2014but they haven\u2019t yet been cashed or deposited by the recipient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They\u2019re in limbo, creating a temporary mismatch between your books and your bank statement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this article, we\u2019ll go through outstanding checks, why they matter, how to identify and record them, and the best practices for managing them efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We\u2019ll also show you how accounting software can simplify this process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Here\u2019s what we\u2019ll 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-are-outstanding-checks-in-bank-reconciliation\" data-level=\"2\">What are outstanding checks in bank reconciliation?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-the-role-of-outstanding-checks-in-bank-reconciliation\" data-level=\"2\">The role of outstanding checks in bank reconciliation<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-recording-outstanding-checks-in-your-accounting-system\" data-level=\"2\">Recording outstanding checks in your accounting system<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-identifying-and-calculating-outstanding-checks\" data-level=\"2\">Identifying and calculating outstanding checks<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-best-practices-for-managing-outstanding-checks\" data-level=\"2\">Best practices for managing outstanding checks<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-streamline-reconciliation-with-bank-reconciliation-software\" data-level=\"2\">Streamline reconciliation with bank reconciliation software<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-wrapping-up-why-understanding-outstanding-checks-in-bank-reconciliation-matters\" data-level=\"2\">Wrapping up: Why understanding outstanding checks in bank reconciliation matters<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-are-outstanding-checks-in-bank-reconciliation\">What are outstanding checks in bank reconciliation?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Outstanding checks are payments you\u2019ve issued but haven\u2019t yet cleared your bank account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ve done your part; written the check, updated your records, and maybe even mailed it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But until the recipient deposits or cashes that check, it\u2019s considered \u201coutstanding.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These timing differences are entirely normal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For instance, the customer might wait a few weeks to deposit a check or misplace it altogether.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During that gap, your bank balance appears higher than your books show\u2014because the bank still hasn\u2019t processed the transaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-to-consider-when-doing-a-bank-reconciliation-for-a-client\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">preparing a bank reconciliation<\/a><\/strong>, outstanding checks are subtracted from the bank\u2019s ending balance to bring it in line with your records.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This step ensures your cash position reflects your actual available funds, not just what appears on the bank statement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-role-of-outstanding-checks-in-bank-reconciliation\">The role of outstanding checks in bank reconciliation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Outstanding checks play a key role in the reconciliation process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They help bridge the gap between your internal accounting records and what your bank statement shows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When a check has been issued but not yet cleared, it creates a temporary difference between your book and bank balances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">List and subtract these outstanding checks from the bank\u2019s ending balance during reconciliation to keep your financials accurate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This adjustment makes sure both records align and that your cash position reflects the funds available to your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Skipping this step can lead to overstated balances, which may result in overdrafts, bounced payments, or inaccurate cash flow projections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the importance of outstanding checks goes even further:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>They affect cash flow planning:<\/strong> forgetting about them can lead you to commit to no longer available funds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>They impact financial accuracy:<\/strong> unreconciled checks can cause your account balances to be incorrect.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>They raise audit concerns:<\/strong> long-outstanding checks may appear suspicious and draw auditor attention.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>They reveal inefficiencies: <\/strong>a recurring pattern of uncashed checks might signal issues in your payment or vendor communication process.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-risks-of-outstanding-checks\">Risks of outstanding checks<strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to causing inaccuracies, outstanding check can pose some financial and operational risks, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Risk of Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF):<\/strong> if you forget about an outstanding check and later commit those funds elsewhere, it could lead to overdrafts or NSF fees when the check is eventually cashed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Risk of fraud: <\/strong>the longer a check remains uncashed, the greater risk it could be lost, stolen, or altered. Unmonitored outstanding checks increase your exposure to unauthorized transactions, especially if proper controls aren\u2019t in place.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-recording-outstanding-checks-in-your-accounting-system\">Recording outstanding checks in your accounting system<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you understand what outstanding checks are and why they matter, the next step is learning how to record outstanding checks in bank reconciliation accurately and consistently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As soon as you issue a check, enter it into your accounting system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each record should include the following details:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Date issued<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Payee<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Amount<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even though the check hasn\u2019t cleared yet, recording it right away helps ensure your cash position is accurate and makes it easier to track pending payments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re using accounting software, the system will typically flag checks as \u201coutstanding\u201d until they clear through your bank feed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This automation helps reduce errors, ensures nothing gets missed, and makes following up on uncashed checks more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For businesses managing a high volume of payments, a centralized dashboard can be especially helpful\u2014allowing staff accountants to stay organized across multiple accounts and streamline the reconciliation process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-identifying-and-calculating-outstanding-checks\">Identifying and calculating outstanding checks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding how to find outstanding checks on bank reconciliation is essential for maintaining accurate financial records.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s a simple step-by-step process to guide you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-start-with-your-check-register\">1. Start with your check register<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pull a list of all checks issued during the reconciliation period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-compare-with-the-bank-statement\">2. Compare with the bank statement<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Review your statement and identify which checks have cleared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-spot-the-differences\"><strong>3. Spot the differences<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Any check listed in your register that doesn\u2019t appear on the bank statement is likely outstanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re wondering how to calculate outstanding checks in bank reconciliation, the process is simple.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Add up the amounts of all checks that have been issued but haven\u2019t yet cleared the bank.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The total becomes the adjustment you subtract from the bank balance to complete the reconciliation accurately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A helpful tip is to match records regularly, either monthly or weekly, to catch discrepancies early and avoid any last-minute surprises at the end of the month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-best-practices-for-managing-outstanding-checks\">Best practices for managing outstanding checks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Adopting proactive habits can make a big difference when managing outstanding checks effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are some key best practices to follow:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-reconcile-regularly\">1. Reconcile regularly<strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make bank reconciliation a monthly routine. Frequent reconciliation helps you catch outstanding checks early and act before they become stale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-communicate-with-payees\">2. Communicate with payees<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a check hasn\u2019t been cashed after a couple of weeks, follow up with the payee. A quick email or phone call can prevent unnecessary delays or the need to reissue the check.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-void-stale-checks\">3. Void stale checks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most banks consider checks \u201cstale\u201d after six months, meaning they may no longer process them. How you handle outstanding checks depends on how long they\u2019ve been uncashed:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>If the check is less than six months old:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Continue to track the check in your account register.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contact the recipient to confirm they received the check.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ask if they\u2019ve misplaced it or when they plan to deposit or cash it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>You should not write another check during this period<\/strong>, as doing so could lead to duplicate payments and reconciliation issues.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>If the check is older than six months:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Consider voiding the stale check.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If the payment is still owed, reissue a new check to replace the original.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Update your accounting records to reflect both the voided check and the reissued one.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Following these steps helps maintain accurate financial records, prevents duplicate payments, and avoids confusion during reconciliation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-keep-detailed-records\">4. Keep detailed records<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maintain a complete and up-to-date check register. Include information about issued, voided, and reissued checks and any relevant notes to support audits and internal reviews.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-use-accounting-software\">5. Use accounting software<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/accounting-software\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Accounting software<\/a><\/strong> can alert you when a check has been outstanding for too long. These tools also help identify duplicates, reduce manual errors, and streamline reconciliation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-streamline-reconciliation-with-bank-reconciliation-software\">Streamline reconciliation with bank reconciliation software<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Manual reconciliation can be time-consuming and prone to errors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re still relying on spreadsheets or paper-based processes it may be time to explore how bank reconciliation software can transform your workflow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s how it can help:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-auto-import-bank-transactions\">Auto-import bank transactions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Eliminate the need to toggle between tabs or enter numbers manually. Transactions are imported automatically, saving time and reducing input errors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-automatically-flag-outstanding-checks\">Automatically flag outstanding checks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The software matches issued checks with cleared ones, making it easy to spot any that are still pending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-receive-real-time-alerts\">Receive real-time alerts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Get notifications when checks remain uncashed for a specific period so you can follow up before they become stale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-maintain-detailed-audit-trails\">Maintain detailed audit trails<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep a complete and organized record of all reconciliation activities, making audits smoother and less stressful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you\u2019re a solo bookkeeper or part of a larger accounting team, using the right <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/integrated-payment-solutions\/bank-reconciliation-software\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">bank reconciliation software<\/a><\/strong> can save you hours each month and significantly improve the accuracy of your financial reports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-wrapping-up-why-understanding-outstanding-checks-in-bank-reconciliation-matters\">Wrapping up: Why understanding outstanding checks in bank reconciliation matters<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Outstanding checks may seem minor, but if not handled properly, they can disrupt your cash flow, lead to inaccurate financial records, and complicate audits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding how they work\u2014and how to manage them\u2014helps to make sure your financial statements reflect your true cash position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are the key takeaways:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Outstanding checks are payments you\u2019ve issued that haven\u2019t yet cleared the bank.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They must be subtracted from the bank\u2019s balance during reconciliation to align with your books.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accurately recording and identifying outstanding checks is essential for maintaining clean financial records.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Following best practices like regular reconciliation and timely follow-ups helps prevent issues before they arise.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accounting software can simplify the entire process, from tracking outstanding checks to keeping your records audit-ready.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the right tools and processes, managing outstanding checks becomes easier, helping you keep your books accurate and your business financially healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner 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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<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 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-us\/blog\/hub\/boss-your-business\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBoss your 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\/cash-flow\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCash Flow\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\/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\/small-business\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSmall 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<\/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-30823 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations tag-accounting-101 tag-boss-your-business tag-business-intelligence tag-cash-flow tag-small-business tag-starting-a-business tag-staying-competitive business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business 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=\"1215\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-1215x810.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-1215x810.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\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=\"2026-06-24T09:08:55-04:00\">June 24, 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\">13 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\/how-to-track-business-expenses\/\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tHow to keep track of business expenses\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&#8217;re responsible for managing business finances, keeping track of expenses affects how clearly you can see your cash flow and make informed decisions. Learn the key steps, best tools, and how to build a process that keeps your finances accurate and error free. \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-30598 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations category-trends-insights tag-boss-your-business tag-business-intelligence tag-business-strategy tag-sage-news tag-security-fraud tag-small-business tag-starting-a-business 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\/what-is-expense-report-fraud\/\"\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\/08\/BrandShootLDN_Jul2022_TechSoftware_0620-684x384.jpeg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"A person giving a presentation to colleagues.\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/BrandShootLDN_Jul2022_TechSoftware_0620-684x384.jpeg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/BrandShootLDN_Jul2022_TechSoftware_0620-768x432.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/BrandShootLDN_Jul2022_TechSoftware_0620-1440x810.jpeg 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=\"2026-06-24T05:46:09-04:00\">June 24, 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\tExpense fraud: How to detect and prevent it in your organization\u00a0\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-29306 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations tag-accounting-101 tag-boss-your-business tag-business-continuity tag-small-business 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\/what-is-a-purchase-order\/\"\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-1415809513-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1415809513-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1415809513-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1415809513-1215x810.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=\"2026-06-12T10:24:32-04:00\">June 12, 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 a purchase order (PO) and how is it used?\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-29310 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations category-technology-innovation tag-artificial-intelligence tag-automation tag-boss-your-business tag-cash-flow tag-cloud-financial-management tag-sage-accounting 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\/order-to-cash-process-otc-o2c\/\"\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-1190223207-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-1215x810.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=\"2026-06-10T12:23:35-04:00\">June 10, 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 the Order to Cash process?\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-29062 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations tag-boss-your-business tag-business-intelligence tag-growing-a-business tag-inventory-management tag-productivity tag-staying-competitive tag-supply-chain-management 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\/what-is-an-order-management-system-oms\/\"\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-1417607997-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1417607997-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1417607997-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1417607997-1215x810.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=\"2026-06-10T10:25:03-04:00\">June 10, 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\">19 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 order management 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\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Understanding what outstanding checks are in bank reconciliation is key to keeping your finances on track. Learn how to identify, record, and manage them to maintain a healthy accounting system.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1847,"featured_media":9346,"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":[43],"tags":[195,299,153,34,155],"business_type":[40,41],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[],"persona":[98,96,97,95],"imagine_tag":[468,233,230,231],"coauthors":[592],"class_list":["post-31288","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-money-matters","tag-boss-your-business","tag-cash-flow","tag-growing-a-business","tag-small-business","tag-staying-competitive","business_type-small-business","business_type-growing-business"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-us","author_name":"Joe Church Woods","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-734165167.jpg","imagine_tags":{"468":"Grow your business","233":"Medium Businesses","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\/31288","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\/1847"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=31288"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31288\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/9346"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=31288"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=31288"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=31288"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=31288"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=31288"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=31288"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=31288"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=31288"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=31288"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=31288"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}