The goal of reconciliation
Reconciliation does not force two numbers to match. It explains the relationship between them. It compares transaction records with point-of-sale output, settlements, transfers, or related entries, then classifies differences and documents resolution.
Matching layers
- Order to payment: does each paid order have the correct transaction?
- Payment to record: are state, amount, and currency recorded without duplication?
- Record to settlement: did eligible transactions enter the correct cycle?
- Settlement to financial counterpart: does net value match the expected transfer or entry?
Difference types
- Timing between daily close and settlement window.
- Pending transaction or delayed outcome.
- Refund recorded in a different period.
- Documented fee absent from the point-of-sale comparison.
- Duplication in an external system or incomplete import.
- A real difference requiring investigation and approval.
Resolution rule
Do not edit the original transaction merely to close a difference. Create a correction, exception, or state linked to the source with reason, approval, and traceable effect.
Review output
Reconciliation should show what matched, what remains, difference age, accountable owner, and next action. Connect it with Daily operations and close and Refunds and reversals.