Monthly A/P Checklist

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Monthly A/P Checklist

Monthly Accounts Payable Checklist (MLS 2026)

Use this checklist at the end of each payment cycle to keep Accounts Payable accurate, organized, and current.

Consistent processing helps:

Maintain strong vendor relationships

Avoid late fees and credit problems

Keep cash flow predictable

Ensure accurate accounting records


1. Enter All Vendor Invoices

☐ Post all recently received invoices

☐ Verify vendor account numbers

☐ Enter invoice numbers in Notes

☐ Verify Debit and Credit G/L accounts


2. Review Vendor Statements

☐ Compare vendor statements to Worksheets

☐ Look for:

Missing invoices

Duplicate invoices

Incorrect balances

☐ Resolve discrepancies before issuing payments


3. Review Overdue Accounts

☐ Run Summary of Overdue A/P Accounts

☐ Review aging totals

☐ Identify vendors requiring immediate attention

☐ Contact vendors if needed

☐ Document all communication in Notes


4. Review Cash Requirements

☐ Review current cash availability

☐ Prioritize critical vendors if necessary

☐ Verify payment schedule by cycle


5. Process Vendor Payments

☐ Select correct payment cycle

☐ Open Write Checks / Posting

☐ Review invoices carefully

☐ Verify payment amounts

☐ Apply payments to proper invoices


6. Verify General Ledger Accounts

☐ Verify Debit and Credit accounts before processing

☐ Confirm Spread G/L totals balance properly


7. Print Checks

☐ Verify:

Check alignment

Vendor names

Payment amounts

☐ Confirm checks printed correctly before finalizing


8. Finalize Processing

☐ Select Process

☐ Verify payments posted correctly

☐ Confirm vendor balances updated properly


9. Run Period Close

☐ Select Tools → Period Close

☐ Enter correct:

Payment cycle

Closing date

⚠️ Use the same cycle and date used during payment processing.


10. Review Balances After Closing

☐ Run Summary of Balances Due

☐ Verify balances and aging totals

☐ Confirm paid invoices moved to history


11. Run Monthly Reports

☐ Run:

Monthly Totals

Overdue A/P Report

Vendor Worksheets (if needed)

☐ Review unusual balances or activity


12. File and Organize Records

☐ File:

Vendor statements

Worksheets

Check copies

Payment documentation

☐ Maintain organized records for:

Vendor disputes

Tax reporting

Year-end accounting


Quick Rules to Remember

✔ Enter invoices promptly

✔ Review vendor statements before paying

✔ Process payment cycles consistently

✔ Run Period Close after processing

✔ Keep overdue balances low


Why this checklist matters

Following a consistent monthly routine helps:

Prevent accounting errors

Avoid vendor disputes

Protect business credit reputation

Improve cash flow management


Recommended Use

This checklist works well:

Printed near the accounting workstation

As a training guide for new staff

As part of monthly accounting procedures


Final Thought

Well-managed Accounts Payable is not just bookkeeping—it is one of the foundations of maintaining strong business relationships and stable business operations.

Consistent payment practices build trust, improve vendor cooperation, and help ensure long-term financial stability.