Three-way match
An accounts payable control that checks an invoice against the purchase order and the receiving record before approving it for payment.
AP compares quantity and price across three documents: what was ordered (the PO), what arrived (the goods receipt) and what was billed (the invoice). If they agree within tolerance, the invoice is approved. If not, it goes on hold.
A two-way match skips the receipt; a four-way match adds an inspection record. For the seller, any mismatch means a delay, often discovered only when the invoice is already past due.
Related terms
- Purchase order (PO)A buyer-issued document authorizing a purchase at agreed quantities and prices. Many buyers won't pay an invoice that doesn't reference a valid PO.
- Procure to pay (P2P)The buyer's side of the transaction: requesting and purchasing goods, receiving them, then matching and paying the supplier's invoice.
- Proof of delivery (POD)Documentation, usually a signed delivery receipt or carrier record, showing that goods were delivered, when and to whom.