Outsourcing Accounts Payable Services to the Philippines

Accounts Payable (AP) is a tedious process. From verifying invoices and matching them with purchases, to checking payment authorizations and ensuring all obligations are settled on time, it is indeed a daunting task.

At its core, AP involves managing various expenses. It also plays a crucial role in working capital and cash flow management. Hence, simply leaving these things in the hands of someone inexperienced might result in inefficiency and delayed payments.

Businesses with admin-focused finance departments may neglect AP functions due to the overwhelming volume of paperwork and manual processes. As a result, many organizations choose to outsource accounts payable services to oversee their AP tasks effectively.

The Remote Group serves as the bridge between clients and dedicated accounts payable clerks. Our skilled remote AP teams handle invoicing, authorizing payments, settling obligations, and maintaining positive client-vendor relationships.

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ACCOUNTS PAYABLE OUTSOURCING: A BRIEF OVERVIEW

AP outsourcing is simply the practice of delegating AP functions and responsibilities to external providers such as freelancers or Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) firms. Companies may choose to outsource specific tasks or all accounts payable functions.

When businesses opt for complete outsourcing, the third-party provider takes over day-to-day AP operations. Tasks such as receiving and reviewing invoices, verifying the accuracy of invoices and supporting documents, coding expenses, initiating payment processing, and maintaining vendor records will fall under the scope of the outsourced party. They may also handle communication with vendors, reconcile statements, and manage the accounts payable ledger.

Through accounts payable outsourcing, businesses can streamline their AP processes to further optimize efficiency, reduce costs, and improve accuracy. By leveraging the expertise of the outsourcing provider, companies can benefit from specialized knowledge, advanced technologies, and economies of scale.

Streamline your day-to-day and boost your productivity with The Remote Group

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Accounts Payable Duties and Responsibilities
INVOICE PROCESSING

The task entails examining and handling incoming invoices received from vendors and suppliers. This includes validating the invoice information, cross-referencing it with purchase orders or contracts, and securing appropriate approval for payment.

PAYMENT PROCESSING

The responsibility involves initiating timely payments to vendors and adhering to the agreed-upon payment terms, which may encompass issuing checks, arranging electronic fund transfers, or configuring online payment systems. By fulfilling these tasks, accounts payable ensures smooth financial operations and upholds positive relationships with suppliers.

EXPENSE CODING

Accounts payable clerks may also assign suitable account codes or expense categories to invoices, ensuring accurate cost allocation. This process aids in precise financial reporting and facilitates expense tracking across various departments or cost centers.

VENDOR MANAGEMENT

Vendor management keeps records up-to-date, including contact information, payment terms, and tax identification details. It involves engaging in effective communication with vendors to address any invoice discrepancies and respond to payment inquiries. Building positive relationships with them is also a significant aspect of this process.

ACCOUNT RECONCILIATION

Accounts reconciliation includes comparing vendor statements with the accounts payable ledger to ensure accuracy and address any inconsistencies. This process identifies and rectifies payment discrepancies, outstanding invoices, or billing errors.

RECORD-KEEPING

AP clerks maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all accounts payable transactions, including invoices, payment receipts, and correspondence with vendors. By doing this, they ensure proper documentation for auditing purposes and financial reporting.

COMMON CHALLENGES BUSINESSES FACE WITH ACCOUNTS PAYABLE MANAGEMENT

  • DELAYED INVOICE PROCESSING

    Inefficient invoice routing and a lack of standardized procedures are key factors that contribute to delays. A domino effect of late receipts, processing, and invoice approval might lead to delayed payments, strained vendor relationships, and potential penalties on the principal amount owed.

  • INVOICE EXCEPTIONS AND DISCREPANCIES

    Invoice exceptions, such as disputed charges, incorrect or missing entries, or discrepancies between orders and invoices, may impede the overall AP process. Resolving it can be time-consuming and might require additional communication with vendors.

  • COMPLIANCE AND FRAUD RISKS

    As with all accounting-related roles, it is crucial to adhere to regulatory requirements, tax laws, and internal controls. Failing to comply can result in penalties, legal issues, or audit findings. Additionally, inadequate controls and a lack of segregation of duties can increase the risk of fraud or misappropriation of funds.

  • VENDOR RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT

    Maintaining rapport with vendors requires effective communication, timely payments, and prompt issue resolution. Failing to uphold these crucial aspects can lead to strained partnerships, loss of vendor trust, and potential supply chain disruptions.

  • DATA SECURITY AND CONFIDENTIALITY

    Accounts payable processes involve handling sensitive financial information. Poor data security measures can expose the business to the risk of data breaches, identity theft, or unauthorized access to confidential information.

HOW AP OUTSOURCING OVERCOMES BUSINESS PROBLEMS

ENHANCES EFFICIENCY

If businesses partner with a BPO firm knowledgeable in managing AP processes, they can be sure of the quality of service they’ll receive. The Remote Group has been tested and proven to help businesses with their accounts payable needs. We’ve improved efficiency and reduced turnaround times with well-established workflows, advanced systems, and experienced professionals on our roster.

ACCESS TO EXPERTISE

Outsourcing providers offer access to a highly skilled team of professionals who possess expertise in accounts payable processes, best practices, and regulatory compliance. Their continuous commitment to staying updated with industry standards ensures that invoices are processed with accuracy and efficiency.

RELIABLE PRECISION AND COMPLIANCE

BPOs ensure guaranteed accuracy through the implementation of controls and rigorous quality checks. These inspections verify all stages of invoice processing, data entry, and payment execution. With their in-depth knowledge of regulatory requirements and standards, BPOs significantly minimize the risk of errors, violations, or penalties, providing clients with peace of mind and confidence in their accounts payable operations.

ROBUST DATA SECURITY

Reputable AP outsourcing providers know the value of data protection. Hence, they prioritize data security and have strict measures in place. They adhere to data protection regulations, implement encryption protocols, and maintain secure infrastructure to safeguard confidential financial information.

REPORTING AND ANALYTICS

One of the perks of outsourcing is that it is very statistics-based. They generate customized reports and provide analytics on AP performance, such as payment cycles, invoice aging, and cash flow projections. These insights enable businesses to make informed decisions, improve financial planning, and identify opportunities for enhancing processes.

HEAR FROM OUR ACCOUNTS PAYABLE CLIENTS

Don’t take it from us; hear it straight from our clients who have experienced our excellent accounts payable services.

It’s only been six months since we partnered with The Remote Group, but we’ve already noticed significant improvements in our accounting processes. We are looking forward to this continued positive experience with them.

Oliver, (Melbourne, AUS) Rapid Progress

We transferred our remote AP team to the Philippines under their care, and there is no looking back for us. Their cybersecurity measures are impressive and their support team is available 24/7. Cheers, TRG!

Isla (Sydney, AUS) Unbeatable Cybersecurity Measures

They consistently demonstrate a high level of service and have always managed to find the best staff for our accounts payable team. Their management is also very hands-on in overseeing our employees’ performance.

Leigh (Texas, USA) Exceptional Service & Hands-On Management

    WHY OUTSOURCE AP IN THE PHILIPPINES?

    BIG COST SAVINGS

    The relatively low cost of living in the Philippines accounts for lower employment costs compared to Western countries.

    ENGLISH PROFICIENCY

    English proficiency is widespread in the Philippines, as it is widely spoken and taught in schools. This linguistic capability minimizes language barriers, enabling accounts payable clerks to work with global clients more easily.

    COMPETENT WORKFORCE

    Have access to a large pool of talented and well-educated professionals with a strong background in accounting and finance, suitable for AP roles.

    COMMENDABLE WORK ETHICS

    The Filipino culture emphasizes strong work ethics, dedication, and a service-oriented mindset, which align well with the requirements of AP outsourcing.

    GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

    As one of the top contributors to the country’s economy, the Philippine government has implemented policies and incentives to make the outsourcing landscape more attractive for foreign investors.

    OUTSOURCE ACCOUNTS PAYABLE WITH THE REMOTE GROUP

    Accounts Payable Outsourcing

    Focus on core business activities while your dedicated remote team of accounts payable clerks handles the rest. The Remote Group’s outsourcing services cover all the accounts payable duties a business needs.

    Maximize productivity, streamline processes, and optimize your overall AP operations by getting in touch with our experts today.

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