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How do I manage and transfer vendor deposits across purchase orders?

Jeremy Powers avatar
Written by Jeremy Powers
Updated over a week ago

How to Manage and Transfer Vendor Deposits Across Purchase Orders

Vendor deposits are an integral part of streamlining client invoicing processes. When reconciling deposits, it's important to understand how they interact with purchase orders (POs) and how to handle transfers between them. This article consolidates core guidance on managing vendor deposits effectively.

Overview of Vendor Deposits in POs

Vendor deposits are payments recorded in relation to specific POs. These deposits help reduce the amount payable when you create a vendor invoice or bill against the same PO. They remain tied to the PO they were originally recorded against and cannot be directly applied to a different PO.

Applying Vendor Deposits to the Same PO

When a deposit is recorded for a specific PO, it will be automatically applied as you post vendor invoices (bills) against that PO. The deposit amount reduces the balance due until fully utilized. This ensures streamlined reconciliation for each individual PO.

Transferring Vendor Deposits Between POs

If you need to transfer a vendor deposit from one PO to another, follow these steps:

  1. Add a new Deposit on the Original PO: - Enter a negative Vendor Deposit on the original PO for the amount you wish to transfer (e.g., -1000.00). - Ensure the "Pay With" option remains set to 'A Check.'

  2. Record Deposit on the New PO: - Add a corresponding positive Vendor Deposit on the new PO for the exact same amount (e.g., 1000.00). - Again, ensure the "Pay With" option is set to 'A Check.'

  3. Offset Deposits: - Navigate to the Payments and Print Checks screen. - Select both the negative and positive Vendor Deposits. - Use the "Offset" function to close both entries and complete the transfer action.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply a vendor deposit directly from one PO to another?

Vendor deposits are specifically tied to the PO they were initially recorded with. To use the deposit for another PO, it is necessary to follow the process for transferring deposits outlined above rather than applying it directly.


By understanding these processes, you can ensure accurate handling of vendor deposits, streamlining your client invoicing workflows and avoiding reconciliation errors.

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