Two-way matching compares a supplier invoice with its purchase order. It checks whether items, quantities, prices, and terms agree within accepted tolerances, but unlike three-way matching it does not require a separate goods receipt or service confirmation.
Quick reference for Two-way matching
| Check | What it means for the transaction |
|---|---|
| Category | Orders, invoicing, accounts payable and accounts receivable |
| Record to keep | Link the order, delivery evidence, invoice, approval, adjustment and payment reference that belong to the same transaction. |
| Do not infer | An approved invoice or recorded payment does not by itself prove that funds have settled or that the open balance is reconciled. |
Two-way matching and nearby terms
- Invoice matching: Invoice matching checks a supplier invoice against related purchasing and receiving records before approval.
- Three-way matching: Three-way matching compares a purchase order, a goods receipt or service confirmation, and a supplier invoice before payment approval.

