Checking the calculations on the invoice

An important step when receiving an invoice is to check the calculations made by the supplier are correct. Things to check are:

• Quantity x unit price - the total price is carried down to the sub-total and is used when calculating discounts and VAT so any inaccuracies here will throw the entire invoice out.
• Trade or bulk discount - any discounts applied to an order (including any prompt payment discount where claimed and invoice paid in time to claim).
• VAT - the tax man wants to be paid the correct amount, though note VAT calculations are rounded down (or looses any digits after the penny column.
• Date and terms of payment - the accounts department needs to know when the invoice needs to be paid by.