The AP Channel Newsletter
Home AP Blogs AP News AP Store October 19, 2011
In this Issue
Editor's Note
Spreadsheets in AP
High-Low Method
Continuing Education
Just for Fun!
Register for a webinar to see how invoice automation can work.
AP Certification - The Standard of Excellence for Accounts Payable Professionals
Conference
TAPN's AP Leadership Conference 2012
April 16 – 18, 2012
Eden Roc Renaissance
Miami Beach, FL

Webinar
Examining Form 1099-MISC
October 25, 2011
Presented by John Foertschbeck, CPA
Lynda Foertschbeck, IRSCompliance, Inc.

Earns 1.5 CPEs & 1.5 CEUs
 
Thriving in a Low-Tech AP Environment
While complex automation systems significantly improve accounts payable processes, organizations can still thrive with less sophisticated options. Don't underestimate the powers of a simple spreadsheet.

This issue features information on how your organization can make better use of spreadsheets in accounts payable. Also be sure to take note of the recent changes to per diem substantiation rules.
Patrick Harbin – Editor
Spreadsheets in AP

Excel spreadsheets allow users to store data, make complex calculations, and visualize information. Some uses for spreadsheets in accounts payable include:

  • Expense Reports: According to TAPN benchmarking data, 4 percent of organizations have business travelers submit expense reports via emailed spreadsheets.

  • Metrics: Forty-three percent of organizations that track internal metrics do not have automation support. Many of them use spreadsheets to document and track their results.

  • Check Runs: Sovereign Bank maintains a spreadsheet of all daily check numbers and amounts. This document provides a reference for validating information for check runs.

The most powerful tool in Excel is the pivot table, which allow users to analyze large amounts of data. Be sure to sign up for The Accounts Payable Network's upcoming webinar, Excel Pivot Table Secrets for Finance Teams, presented by Mr. Excel & CFO Magazine, to learn how to make this tool work for you.

High-Low Method
The IRS has reversed its earlier decision to scrap the high-low substantiation method for per diem reimbursements. If you use high-low, you can continue to do so.

See IRS Revives High-Low Per Diem Method on TAPC.

Just for Fun!
Are you tired of having to wait until you're out of the car to read a new text message (because no one texts and drives...)? Ford plans to give drivers a safe alternative to taking their eyes off the road. See Ford Vehicles Now Read You Text Messages While You Drive.


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