Technology allows us to have real-time communication around the world, purchase anything we can think of without leaving our computer chairs, and store an essentially limitless amount of information without regard to physical space. Without a doubt, the future is now.

If we have all of these great technologies at our disposal, then why are most accounts payable organizations less than automated? Why is it that accounts payable departments often feel like analog visitors in a digital world?

Since the passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 (PPAC), organizations have been wracking their brains trying to determine what exactly the legislation will mean for their 1099 processes. As it turns out, the IRS is open to suggestions.

The Internal Revenue Service is currently seeking public comment concerning the new 1099 reporting requirements outlined in the act.

In my last blog post, I stressed that AP document management technology is only as strong as the procure-to-pay (P2P) processes and best practices that underpin it. I also stated that getting value out of your AP technology investment meant taking a hard look at whether your organization's P2P process is an enabler or detractor of efficiency.

By Lynda Foertschbeck, Executive Vice President, IRSCompliance, Inc.

Too many organizations incorrectly believe that they are in compliance with individual state reporting requirements or they may believe that filing their returns under the IRS Combined Federal Program (CFS) has satisfied their requirements. Others simply do not follow state requirements and do not deploy any resources on understanding the requirements and the risks for non-compliance.

By Jim Mandt

Having implemented AP document management and workflow technology in midmarket organizations across the country for more than 20 years, I’ve seen the power of technology in affecting positive and productive change – not only for the organizations themselves, but for suppliers, partners and the entire ecosystem.

The days of paper invoices in Europe may be numbered. Proposed changes to European invoicing requirements could improve electronic invoice adoption while making it easier for U.S. companies to reclaim value-added tax payments.

A press release issued by the European Union announced that the Council of Economic Affairs has decided to simplify VAT invoice requirements, specifically with the goal to promote the adoption of e-invoicing.

By Lynda Foertschbeck, Executive Vice President, IRSCompliance, Inc.

The IRS has stepped up its review and audit activity relating to foreign payments. In fact, they have stated that they will review or audit all businesses which make or could issue foreign payments.

Why is the IRS paying so much attention to foreign payments now? The answer to that question involves understanding why the IRS has increased its scrutiny of information reporting in general.

What is the Problem?

The president’s newly-released budget proposal for fiscal year 2011 could have a direct impact on your accounts payable department.

Each year the president releases a document outlining policy initiatives that his office would like to see included in the finalized budget. This year, the “General Explanations of the Administration’s Fiscal Year 2011 Revenue Proposals,” also called the president’s Green Book, includes two proposals that AP departments should be aware of.

It can sometimes feel like there is an invisible tug-of-war match going on between buyers and suppliers over payment card acceptance. While buyers want to use p-cards so they can save money on payment processing and improve cash flow, some vendors find that the costs of accepting cards outweigh the benefits.

Wow, the color! I especially love those fiery Maples this time of year and the breathtaking show nature puts on for its last gasp before we settle in for those cozy long winter naps.

While driving around your neighborhood, I’m sure you have neighbors who diligently rake their leaves on a sunny weekend day, open the windows, and engage in a little fall home detailing. They also do the same thing for their prized (or not so prized) automobiles.