What Does a Payables Clerk Do?

A payables clerk is responsible for all payments to suppliers. This includes verifying that payments have been approved, processing payments in a timely manner, and ensuring that discounts are taken. The clerk also interacts with suppliers about payment issues, and ensures that the payables process is functioning correctly.

Principal Accountabilities

Match supplier invoices to authorizing purchase orders and proofs of receipt
Take all economical early payment discounts
Obtain payment approvals for non-cost of goods sold invoices
Enter all supplier invoices into the payables software
Issue notices to suppliers regarding rejected invoice line items
Process expense reports
Process procurement card payments
Notify managers when budgeted expenditure levels have been exceeded
Issue stop payments and void checks
Issue reminders to suppliers regarding uncashed checks
Pay supplier invoices when due. This may include the following types of payments:
- ACH payments
- Check payments
- Petty cash payments
- Wire transfers
Incorporate all applicable supplier credits into payments made
Research supplier requests for payment
Process value-added tax reclamations
Monitor supplier W-9 form submissions
Issue positive pay data to the bank
Update the supplier master file
Reconcile accounts payable to the general ledger

Desired Qualifications

3+ years of general accounting experience, with a solid understanding of basic bookkeeping concepts. Must be detail oriented and comfortable using computer-based accounting systems.