ROWAN UNIVERSITY POLICY  


Title: AP General Payment Policy (previously called Invoice Processing and Disbursements)
Subject: Accounts Payable                           
Policy No: FIN: 2014:06                                                                  
Applies: University-Wide
Issuing Authority:   President
Responsible Officer:   Senior Vice President for Finance and CFO
Adopted: 01/24/2010
Last Revision: 10/29/2017
Last Reviewed: 10/29/2017

 I.   PURPOSE

This policy seeks to promote fiscal control, timely and accurate disbursement of funds for external purchases and reimbursements, and compliance with state and federal regulations.
This policy also provides guidance governing all payment and disbursements of University funds, except those for salaries and wages.

II.   ACCOUNTABILITY

Under the direction of the President, the Senior Vice President for Finance and CFO shall implement this policy and the Executive Vice President, Senior Vice President and Provost, Vice Presidents, Deans, Directors, Department Directors and Supervisors shall ensure compliance with this policy. 

III.  APPLICABILITY

This policy is applicable to all employees, students, vendors and guests seeking reimbursement for necessary and reasonable non-compensation business expenses. This policy also affects every individual who reviews, approves, or records financial transactions on behalf of the University.

 IV. DEFINITIONS

  1. Approver: An individual responsible for confirming transactions are appropriate, compliant with policies, and approved in a timely manner.

  2. Appropriate expense: An expense that is suitable or fitting for a particular valid business purpose.

  3. Allowable expense: A necessary, reasonable, and appropriate expense incurred for the primary benefit of University business and, therefore, permitted to be reimbursed or directly charged based on the permission of the University.
  4. Automated Clearing House (ACH): A Federal Reserve Bank or private financial institution acting as a clearinghouse for direct deposit or fund transfer transactions. Entries are received and transmitted by the ACH under the rules of the association.
  5. Department Chair or Head: An individual who is a department chair, department head, or office head.
  6. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP): Fundamental principles of accounting that are used as guidance in the preparation of the University financial statements.
  7. Independent Contractor: For purposes of this policy, an independent contractor is an individual who provides services to Rowan University and is not an employee. Therefore, the worker should be paid under a 1099 (and not a W-2).
  8. Invoice: A document that itemizes a transaction between the buyer and a seller. The document represents an asset of the issuer and a liability of the customer. For the purpose of this policy, Accounts Payable Department requires this document for payment.
  9. Miscellaneous Disbursement Vouchers (MDV): MDV’s are used to generate disbursements and reimbursements for minor out-of-pocket expenses (generally $500 or less). Examples of reimbursements made to employees / students: minor purchases, memberships, registrations, subscriptions and license renewals. Finance Division administrative payments are also authorized on this form. Additionally, all types of renewals up to $2,500 can be paid on the Miscellaneous Disbursement Voucher.  
  10. Necessary: Minimum purchase or service required to achieve a particular business objective.
  11. Original Receipt: The original receipt or invoice issued by the supplier or service provider to document and substantiate the business transaction. If the paper receipt is missing and/or destroyed, a digital image of the original receipt may be allowable provided that it is legible.
  12. Purchase Order: The University’s preferred method of purchasing goods and services. A Purchase Order is a document issued by the University and serves as a commitment to purchase the goods or services. Purchase Orders are issued by buyers to sellers listing prices, quantities, and types of products or services looking to be purchased.
  13. Reasonable Expense: An expense that is not extreme or excessive, but ordinary; it reflects a practical decision to incur the expense on behalf of University business.
  14. Requisition: The electronic request for the purchase of goods and service; or an individual requesting payment of a transaction as permitted within this policy. These electronic requests are converted to purchase orders by the Office of Contracting and Procurement.
  15. Substantiation: Incurred Requisitions, Miscellaneous Disbursement Vouchers and Travel Expenses must be substantiated with documentation to support the payment. All payments must include the original receipts, documentation of business purpose, names of attendees, and the appropriate expense report for the incurred cost.

 V.  REFERENCES

  1. University Policies: Accounts Payable Policies
  2. Internet Native Banner Training - Receiving           
  3. Contracting and Procurement webpage - Procurement at a Glance
  4. Accounting Services website
  5. IRS: U.S. Tax Withholding on Payments to Foreign Persons
  6. IRS: Withholding Certificate Forms Under IRC Sections 1441-1464

 VI.  POLICY

  1. General Requirements:
    1. The University requires proper approval and consistent application of procedures for payment transactions to control the disbursement of funds. This policy promotes fiscal control, timely and accurate disbursement of funds for external purchases, payments, reimbursements, and compliance with state and federal regulation. Payments are not made in cash.
    2. The Accounts Payable Department is the only department of the University authorized to disburse funds for payments. Separate bank accounts have been established for disbursing funds for the operation of these areas and for the disbursement of general operating funds. A separate payroll account is maintained for the University payroll process.
    3. The Accounts Payable Department is responsible for overseeing the payment process for the University, including oversight of appropriate payment methods, the approval process for travel encumbrances and direct payments, and disbursement controls. Certain specific responsibilities for payment of expenses, as described in this policy, are delegated to all who have responsibility for any aspect of the University’s payment functions.
      1. The University disburses funds for payment of goods and services only when the following conditions have been met:
        1. Expenses must be for a valid business purpose.
        2. Goods or services must have been procured in accordance with University procurement policies.
        3. Transactions must have been properly approved by an individual with decision-making authority and accountability for the funds being disbursed.
        4. Goods and/or services must have been received, performed or prepayment properly authorized.
        5. Transactions must include complete and accurate supporting documentation.
        6. Transactions must bear proper account codes, in accordance with established accounting policies.
        7. Transactions / reimbursements must follow the allowable business expenses criteria and be substantiated before processing.
      2. Payments for goods and services are made payable only to the provider of those goods or services (or to a contractually named agent), and not to secondary parties such as, other non-profit organizations, mutual funds, religious organizations, etc.
    4. Allowable Business Expenses
      1. Allowable business expenses are necessary, reasonable, appropriate, and allowable non-compensation expenses incurred for a valid business purpose to fulfill the mission of the University. Allowable business expenses may be reimbursed if an individual paid the expense from personal funds. However, the University prefers that business expenses are paid directly by using other appropriate University buying and paying methods of procurement.
      2. Criteria for Determining an Allowable Expense
        1. In order to be paid directly by the University or in order for an individual to be reimbursed, a business expense must be:
          1. Necessary to perform a valid business purpose fulfilling the mission of the University.
          2. Reasonable in that the expense is not extreme or excessive, and reflects a prudent decision to incur the expense.
          3. Appropriate in that the expense is suitable and fitting in the context of the valid business purpose.
          4. Allowable according to the terms of any State and Federal regulation or University policy.
    5. Substantiation and Original Receipts
      While such allowable expenses may be eligible for payment by University funds, other funding sources may have more restrictions. In order for a business expense to be approved and reimbursed, it must be properly substantiated. Original receipts for all expenditures are required. This policy also lists substantiation and original receipt elements required to pay allowable business expenses. In general, this policy ensures appropriate use of University funds in support of the mission, follows GAAP and complies with Federal and State regulations.
  2. Five Payment methods:
    1. Goods and/or services performed are paid in the following ways, within guidelines established by this policy:
      1. Payments via an authorized purchase order
      2. Direct payment - Miscellaneous Disbursement Voucher (MDV)
      3. Payments via an encumbrance number -Travel related
      4. Payments to Individuals, Independent Contractor, Domestic and Foreign
      5. Petty Cash Fund
    2. Payment via an Authorized Purchase Order
      The University requests that vendors send invoices referencing a valid purchase order directly to Accounts Payable via the dedicated inbox invoices@rowan.edu. When the department receives an invoice directly from the vendor, it is the responsibility of the department to submit that invoice to Accounts Payable as quickly as possible, and to expedite any other steps necessary to process the invoice for payment. Invoices are processed in accordance with the procedures accompanying this policy, and all relevant financial, legal, and contractual requirements are observed. For payment purposes, vendor statement and fax or copies of invoices are not considered appropriate supporting documentation for purchases, and the University will not pay from such statements or copies.
      1. Receiving Acknowledgment
        It is expected that the end-user of goods and services will always perform a receiving function, confirming that the goods and/or services ordered were received in accordance with the order.
      2. Three-way match
        Banner Purchasing Module provides for a three-way match of the purchase order, receiving, and vendor invoice. When this match is complete, the payment is scheduled for payment processing through the check matching process.
      3. Electronic Invoices
        Electronic invoices are the preferred method and should be encouraged whenever feasible. The electronic invoices are processed into Banner and indexed into the scanning software for easier visibility and storage efficiencies.
      4. Invoices
        It is the responsibility of the department to provide an original invoice and ensure duplicate copies are not submitted to Accounts Payable. Packing slips and statements should not be submitted for payment. Please avoid writing on the remittance portion of the invoice.
    3. Direct Payment- Miscellaneous Disbursement Voucher
      Miscellaneous Disbursement Vouchers may be submitted for direct payment to employees, students, vendors and other miscellaneous administrative disbursements as authorized by this policy. These reimbursements are usually paid to an individual who incurs expenses on behalf of their departmental business operations due to an emergency.
      1. Miscellaneous Disbursement Voucher - MDVs
        MDVs may not be used in lieu of the requisition process. Generally, the MDV is used for minor out-of-pocket expenses of $500 or less. The purpose of the reimbursement must coincide with the criteria established for allowable business expenses.
      2. MDVs reimbursement
        Reimbursements are processed within five (5) business days of date received in Accounts Payable and will be direct deposited into the same bank account employees set up with Payroll, unless otherwise specified.
      3. MDV’s are also used for the following direct payments and may exceed $500:
        1. Refunds on student accounts to student, parents, lending institutions, etc.
        2. Reimbursements of employees,’ students,’ candidates,’ and vendors’ for travel or other related expenses.
        3. Memberships, registrations, subscriptions, & license renewals (up to $2,500).
        4. Creation/Re-establishment of a Petty Cash Fund.
        5. General accounting payments for bonds, debt services, grants, etc.
        6. Payment of payroll taxes and other payroll withholdings.
        7. Student Government Payments.
        8. Rowan University Foundation Payments.
        9. S.J. Technology Park at Rowan University Payments.
        10. Miscellaneous Administrative payments as approved by the Senior Vice President of Finance or appropriate designee.
        11. Pre-payment of travel expenses as long as the individual has been authorized to travel via an encumbrance number issued by Accounts Payable Department.
        12. Tuition Reimbursements
        13. Sales and Payroll Tax withholdings, etc.
      4. Expense Authorization
        A full, legible signature of the individual authorizing payment is required.  Initials will not be accepted.  Only those individuals having budget responsibility may approve expenditures. When a business purpose is not evident for any item purchased, a brief description should be added.  Expenses must be coded with the correct fund, organization and account number.
      5. Direct payments received on MDV’s that are for any other category will be returned to the preparer for submission through the requisition process. Exceptions to this policy may be approved by the President, Senior Vice President of Finance, or designee.
    4. Payment via a Travel Encumbrance Number
      Encumbrance is a tool used to reflect commitments in the Banner system and attempts to prevent overspending. At Rowan University, an encumbrance number is issued to employees and students traveling on official University business upon approval of the travel request form.  
      1. Travel Expense
        Expense reimbursements should be requested using the Travel Expense form and completed by following the instructions within the document.  Attach appropriate expenditure receipts to the Report.  Expenditures will not be reimbursed without appropriate receipts and an approved encumbrance number.
      2. Travel Expense submission
        Expense Reports should be submitted no later than ten (10) ten days after each trip ends or every two weeks if expenditures are incurred on an ongoing basis. Expenditures submitted more than forty five (45) days after the trip has occurred or when the item is purchased will not be reimbursed.
      3. Travel Expense reimbursement
        Reimbursements are processed within five (5) business days and will be direct deposited into the same bank account employees set up with Payroll unless otherwise specified.  To change your direct deposit banking information, please visit the Accounts Payable website and complete the direct deposit form.
      4. Travel - Advance request
        Requests for advances may be authorized for anticipated travel expenditures related to University business as set forth in the Travel policy. Advances must be cleared in accordance with the relevant University policy and related procedures. An approved Travel Request form must be completed before any business travel may be initiated.
        1. Employees should allow a minimum of five (5) business days from date of submission for processing.  Advances will be direct deposited into the employee's bank account on the check run day closest to the traveler's date of departure.
        2. Employees who receive a Cash Advance must satisfy the advance with an Expense Report within five (5) days of returning from the trip.  No further advances or reimbursements will be made until the outstanding advance has been reconciled. For more information please review the Travel Policy.
      5. Expense Authorization
        A full, legible signature of the individual authorizing payment is required.  Initials will not be accepted. Only those individuals having budget responsibility may approve expenditures. Expenses must be coded with the correct fund, organization and account number.
    5. Payments to Individuals – Foreign and Domestic
      1. Tax Implications
        It is extremely important that any payment for work done by a student or employee of the University be processed through Payroll rather than Accounts Payable. Payments in excess of $600 made to individuals through Accounts Payable are reported annually to the IRS on Form 1099M. If you are unsure as to the proper handling of payments to be made to an individual, please review the Independent Contractor Policy.
      2. Independent Contractor Agreement
        The Independent Contractor Agreement form is used with both Purchase Orders over $500 and MDV’s under $500 as a way of documenting a service rendered where there is no formal contract previously in place and invoices are not available as a normal course of business. This form may not be used by TEMPORARY PART-TIME employees or ANY OTHER Rowan University employee. All payments to employees for services must be processed on a Special Assignment Contract in accordance with Human Resource regulations.
      3. Payments for services rendered by employees are not to be made in any manner other than through the Human Resources office, to facilitate the appropriate tax withholdings. This includes payments to employees for services performed beyond their normal job duties or outside of the department in which they are regularly employed.
        1. This also includes student employees regardless of whether or not they are performing services beyond their normal job duties or outside of the department in which they are regularly employed. This is necessary to ensure compliance with Internal Revenue Service rules and regulations, and to ensure that appropriate internal controls are followed with regard to payments for services. For more information please visit the Independent Contractor Policy.
      4. Foreign Nationals and International Parties as Independent Contractors
        To ensure compliance with IRS regulations, prior to engaging a foreign national for services, the University must analyze the foreign party’s eligibility to work in the U.S. as well as their residency status for tax purposes. We encourage you to review the IRS website on “U.S. Tax Withholding on Payments to Foreign Persons” to help plan the engagements. Payment to Independent Contractors/Vendors must be made through the Accounts Payable Office. Payments to Foreign Independent Contractors/Vendors require special handling for tax purposes.
        1. As a rule, 30% must be withheld from their payment unless the country has a tax treaty with the United States. A Foreign National Information Form must be completed before the services are performed. If a person is claiming a tax treaty exemption, an 8233 Internal Revenue Service form must be completed and submitted prior to payment being released. For further information on payment options contact the Director of Accounts Payable or review the Independent Contractor Policy.
    6. Petty Cash Fund
      1. A Petty Cash Fund is a method of payment made in convenience when immediate payment is required to secure goods or services. Petty Cash should be used to pay bills only when immediate payment is required to secure the product or service. All other normal payments should be submitted through normal University Contract and Procurement procedures.
      2. When a Petty Cash Fund is established, the amount of the fund is transferred from the regular University cash account. When disbursements from the fund are made, the appropriate receipts must be retained in order to reimburse the fund. Petty Cash Funds are a combination of cash-on-hand, plus supporting receipts that should always equal your approved Petty Cash amount.
      3. Petty Cash Reconcilement
        It is the responsibility of the Department Head to oversee their Petty Cash Fund and to ensure that the Petty Cash Fund reconciles to the approved amount at all times. Periodically, Accounting Services will perform an audit of the Petty Cash accounts and issue a letter to the appropriate responsible party confirming their audit findings.
      4. Petty Cash Closing
        Unnecessary Petty Cash funds should be closed as soon as possible. All remaining cash should be returned to the Bursar’s office with a deposit transmittal receipt, crediting the Petty Cash account to the Bursar's office. All remaining receipts should be entered on an MDV. This MDV should be marked "Final" and "Petty Cash Reimbursement" and submitted to the Accounting Services department for preparation of a journal entry to clear the remaining petty cash balance.
  3. Payment Terms:
    1. The University payment terms are net 30 days unless otherwise stated on the contract. Departments are not authorized to negotiate different terms or to make special arrangements concerning payment terms. Interest will not be included under the bill for late payments on construction contracts, for goods or services or for defective items. The required payment date will be 30 calendar days from the receipt of a properly executed invoice by the Accounts Payable department or 30 calendar days from the receipt of goods and services, whichever is later. Variances from this policy can only be approved by the Senior Vice President of Finance and CFO.
    2. Accounts Payable will make every effort to process invoices in a timely manner to take advantage of discount terms. Keep in mind that not all discounts offered by suppliers are beneficial to the University. A discount period shall commence on the day the University receives a properly executed Contractor’s Invoice for products and services that have been duly accepted by the University in accordance with the terms, conditions and specifications of the Contract/Purchase Order. To ensure that all discounts and invoices are processed by due dates, it is critical that invoices be forwarded to Accounts Payable as quickly as possible.
      1. Cash Discount
        A Cash Discount, or otherwise known as purchase discount or sales discount, is a discount allowed by the vendor at the time of making the payment for the goods and services. The vendor authorizes a reduction on the invoice price of the goods and services to encourage prompt payment. The cash discount is accomplished by a two-part transaction that requires the first item to be a percentage discount and the second item the number of days in which payment can be made to receive the discount. Thus, terms of "1/10" mean that a discount of 1% can be taken if payment is made within 10 days. Prompt payment discounts revert to the University General Fund.
      2. Trade discount  
        Also known as product discount or volume (bulk) discount, is an incentive given to the University by the vendor at the time of purchasing the goods and/or services. This discount is accomplished as a deduction in the list price of the quantity sold. The vendor grants this discount with the aim of increasing the sales of buying in bulk and by providing a reduced price for each good or group of goods. This type of discount is recorded back to the department’s FOAPAL.
    3. Processing Time
      Properly authorized and coded paperwork will be processed within five (5) business days of receipt or by the due date. Accounts Payable will process only those transactions bearing appropriate approval established within the guidelines of this policy.
    4. Expense Authorization
      A full, legible signature of the individual authorizing payment is required.  Initials will not be accepted.  Only those individuals having budget responsibility may approve expenditures and ensure expenses are coded with the correct fund, org and account number.
    5. W-9 Form Required
      A completed W-9 Form must be on file in the Office of Contracting and Procurement in order for each vendor to be paid.
    6. Frequency of Check Runs
      Checks are issued three (3) times a week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.  If checks must be printed outside of the normal processing schedule, the department requiring the additional check must have approval from the Accounts Payable Director or Senior Vice President of Finance. All checks will be mailed unless prior approval is authorized.
    7. Tax Exemption
      The University is only tax exempt for purchases made in New Jersey and Florida. Buyers are required to inform suppliers of our tax status to ensure that we are not charged for sales tax.  The exemption is not applicable to taxable services such as out of State travel. Please reference the Office of Contracting and Procurement website for the University's Tax Exemption Form.
    8. Void Checks
      Voided checks are not to be destroyed.  If a check is no longer needed, send the check(s) to the Accounts Payable Office for tracking purposes with a Void Check Request Form.  If a check needs to be reissued, please contact the Accounts Payable Supervisor to submit your request. Check discrepancies are also addressed by the Supervisor of Accounts Payable via email. Please complete the voided check request form and forward to AP with explanation. Allow five (5) business days for processing.
  4. Submission Deadlines:
    1. Employee Reimbursement
      To be reimbursable, business expenses must be properly substantiated and submitted within certain time frames. In order for expenses to be recorded on a timely basis, the University requires that reimbursable business expenses be substantiated within 45 days after the expense is incurred. This includes mileage reimbursement, entertainment, MDVs and all transactions classified as reimbursement.  
  5. Forms of Payment:
    The University prides itself in helping the environment “go green” by providing several electronic forms of payments. Suppliers will have the option to select one of the following accelerated payment methods:
    1. Electronic Funds Transfers (EFT)
      Electronic funds transfers include payments made via wire transfer which may be initiated by the submission of a Wire Transfer Request Form. Payment by wire transfer is appropriate under specific conditions, such as payment of a foreign vendor, tax remittances, and when no other source of payment is accepted. Wire transfers may only be initiated with an appropriately authorized invoice as supporting documentation. All wire transfer requests are handled by the Director of Accounts Payable and Accounting Services. Refer to attachments for detailed procedures.
    2. Automatic Clearing House (ACH)
      Accounts Payable is responsible for approving, releasing and funding ACH payments on behalf of the University and for the movement of funds from University bank accounts. ACH transfers represent the electronic exchange of funds between accounts held at U.S. financial institutions. The process allows recurring payments to be paid electronically through the Automated Clearing House (ACH) network. Regarding the management of activities and procedures of the Automated Clearing House (ACH), this document is subject to revision in conjunction with the current NACHA Operating rules and Guidelines, also referred to as ACH Rules. This policy applies to all Rowan University employees and any organization or individual with a contractual relationship with the University. This is the preferred method of payment for vendors, employees and others authorized to do business with Rowan University. Automatic deposit of Rowan University vendor payments are processed by the Accounts Payable department.
    3. Paper Checks
      All checks are issued by the Accounts Payable Department. Disbursements of the University may be “facsimile”—signed by an authorized officer of the University utilizing a laser printer. Accounts Payable monitors paper issued checks and constantly sends out reminders to vendors encouraging direct deposit. A review and second signature is required for checks greater than $15,000. See check cycle responsibility and disbursement in the attachments for a list of authorized signers. Check discrepancies are addressed by the Supervisor of Accounts Payable via email.  

 VII.       ATTACHMENTS

Attachment 1 - Purchase Order Receiving Procedure

Attachment 2 - Three-way Match

Attachment 3 - Direct Payments - Individual Responsibilities and Procedures (MDV)

Attachment 4 - Processing Tuition Reimbursement using a MDV

Attachment 5 - Hire & Pay an IC –Step by Step Summary

Attachment 6 - Petty Cash Procedure

Attachment 7 - Check Cycle Responsibility

Attachment 8 - Check Cycle Disbursement

Attachment 9 - Types of Payment Request

Attachment 10 - Wire Transfer Request Procedure


 

Attachment 1
Purchase Order Receiving Procedure


The Purchasing Module of Banner Finance requires a three-way match of a purchase order, on-line receiving and a vendor invoice before the payment process is begun. The department/office completes on-line receiving with the date the product is physically received or service rendered. (This is very important for determining the appropriate accounting period according to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.)

Once items are physically received or services have been rendered from a requisition you have placed, you must enter Receiving information into Banner. The vendor will not be paid until this step has been completed.

  1. In the Search field enter of the Banner Welcome page
    Type FPARCVD
    Enter

  2. In the Receiver Document Code
    Type Next
    Go

  3. Receiver Header can remain blank
    Next Section

  4. Packing Slip
    Enter invoice number or initials and date (i.e. ABC102517)
    Next Section

  5. Purchase Order
    Enter Purchase Order number
    Tab confirm the correct vendor appear

  6. Go up to tools and select Option Receiver All Purchase Order items or Select Purchase Order items
    Next Section


 

Attachment 2
 Three-Way Match

 

The Purchasing Module of Banner provides for a three-way match of the purchase order, receiving, and vendor invoice. When this match is complete, the payment is scheduled for payment processing through the check matching process.

  1. The following disbursements are reviewed by the Accounts Payable Supervisor: Standing Order (SO), Check with Order (CW), and Change Order (CH). These purchase order types are not included in the three-way match.
  2. Responsibility for payment, after the three-way match is performed, is assigned to the Supervisor of Accounts Payable/Disbursements. Proper control of the payment function is maintained by the system through the use of security in the purchase order authorization function, the separate responsibility for receipt of goods, and the processing of the vendor's invoice
    1. Release of a University check for distribution is subject to approval based on the amount of the check and the nature of the expenditure:
      1. Up to $15,000
      2. Director/Supervisor of A/P
    2. $15,000 and over
      1. Director/Supervisor Accounts Payable and original signature of the Senior Vice President of Finance, Bursar, Assist VP of Finance/Controller or Director of General Accounting.
      2. Foundation /S.J. Technology Park checks require an original signature of an authorized signer. Checks that exceed $1,000 require two signatures of authorized signers. Signature cards are on file with the Director of Accounts Payable.

 

Attachment 3
Direct Payment - Responsibilities and Procedures


As described in the policy, direct payments do not require a purchase order and are usually processed on an MDV form. An allowable business expense is anything that fits the criteria found in Section 8 of this policy. MDV’s may be used for pre-payment of travel, tuition reimbursements, out-of- pocket expenses under $500, and other miscellaneous administrative disbursements. For more information on travel reimbursements, please review the Travel policy. The procedures for initiating and processing Miscellaneous Disbursement Vouchers (MDV's) for the purposes of authorizing and approving expenditures are discussed below.

  1. MDV Approval
    1. Department - All MDV's are prepared within the appropriate department. It is the official responsibility of the Department Head to review and approve all MDV's originated within the department in accordance with University policies. Reimbursements to Department Heads are to be approved by their supervisors. The MDV is then forwarded to the Accounts Payable department.
  2. Accounts Payable
    Verifies the following items on the MDV:
    1. Proper documents attached (original receipts, invoices, quotations if needed),
    2. Independent Contractor Agreement
    3. W-9, if not on file
  3. Accounts Payable Director
    1. Signs document authorizing expenditure, based upon review of MDV for reasonableness and agreement with University rules and regulations.
    2. Returns MDV to the appropriate Department Head if incomplete, or not in accordance with University policies and procedures.
  4. MDV Processing
    1. The Accounts Payable unit is provided with authorized copies of MDV's for payment processing. MDV's are assigned an invoice number by the Banner system for tracking and processing purposes.
  5. Processing Procedures - Accounts Payable Office
    1. Receives approved MDV
    2. Verifies assigned vendor number from vendor master list.
    3. Assigns serial invoice number to MDV, generated by the Banner system.
    4. Enters Payment Voucher on Banner Finance System.
    5. Processes payment.
       

**For forms visit Account Payable website and click on tab called “Forms”


Attachment 4
Direct Payments for Tuition Reimbursements

 

As described in the policy, direct payments do not require a purchase order and are usually processed on an MDV form. As stated in the policy, the MDV form can be used to process various payments, such as tuition reimbursements, student refunds, sales and Payroll tax withholdings, travel and other miscellaneous administrative disbursements. Below are the procedures for completing an MDV form when requesting a tuition reimbursement.

  1. Tuition Reimbursement
    Each bargaining unit has specific guidelines for handling the reimbursement of tuition. Please contact the Provost Office or Human Resources for specific details. Payment is contingent upon continuation of the Tuition Reimbursement Program in the successor agreement that is negotiated between the state and each bargaining unit.
  2. Upon completion of the course:
    1. The employee prepares the Tuition Reimbursement Form (MDV)
    2. Employee submits proof of completion of course with a grade of "C" or better to Supervisor
    3. Submit MDV form to Human Resources for approval
    4. Follows procedure for reimbursement (see attachment number 3)

 

Attachment 5
Hire & Pay an Independent Contractor
Step by Step Summary

 

1. Hiring Director sends a Service Provider Questionnaire (SPQ) and W9 to the potential service provider to complete and return with supporting documentation.

2. Hiring Director completes the Independent Contractor Determination (ICD) Checklist based on information received and collected from the Service Provider Questionnaire (SPQ).

3. If the service provider qualifies as an independent contractor, the Hiring Director sends an Independent Contractor Agreement (ICA) or other approved form of agreement to the service provider for completion.

4. On the other hand, if the form indicates the provider should be treated as an employee, or if a determination could not be made, the Director should contact the Office of Human Resources for assistance.

5. Hiring Director creates a requisition in Banner, and scans attachment of the SPQ, ICD Checklist, ICA, and W-9/W-8 to requisitions@rowan.edu.

6. Independent contractor performs service and sends invoice or ICA to Accounts Payable.

7. Hiring Director receives authorization request through Banner and authorizes payment.

 

**For more information visit Independent Contractor Policy

 

Attachment 6
Petty Cash Procedure

 

 

Steps for establishing Petty Cash Fund:

 

  1. Request to establish or increase the amount in Petty Cash account must be sent to the Director of Accounting Services for approval.

  2. Request memo must include the name, phone number, and Banner ID of the custodian, the proposed amount of the fund, and a Miscellaneous Disbursement Voucher for the requested amount.

  3. After approval, Accounting Services Office will take the necessary steps to establish the account in Banner and forward the Miscellaneous Disbursement Voucher (MDV) to Accounts Payable for processing.


Steps for reimbursement of Petty Cash Fund:

  1. The reimbursement of petty cash will be processed on an MDV; the MDV should be made payable to: "Petty Cash Fund, c/o Custodian Name" Banner ID.

  2. All receipts and supporting documentation should be attached to the MDV and any cash on hand should be noted in the description of services box.

  3. All normal Accounts Payable procedures regarding MDV’s will be followed (i.e., authorized signatures, budget requirements, etc.)

  4. Reimbursement for all receipts should be made no later than 45 days from the date received.

  5. After the check is produced, Accounts Payable will notify the custodian for pick-up. The custodian can then cash the check to establish the fund.

 

Attachment 7
Check Cycle Responsibility

           

  1. Rowan University disburses funds for payment to vendors and for the reimbursement of employees/students through the Accounts Payable function of the Banner Finance system. Checks are processed in the Accounts Payable Department.

  2. The Director and the Supervisor of the Accounts Payable Department handle the responsibility of check cycles. The check cycle disbursement reports are produced and maintained in Accounts Payable with each check run. After the check run is completed, check disbursement reports are reviewed by the Director of Accounting Services.

  3. All disbursements of the University may be "facsimile" signed by an authorized officer of the University utilizing a laser printer. These officers include: President, Senior Vice President of Finance, Bursar, Assist VP of Finance/Controller and the Director of Accounting. The Rowan University Foundation checks require original signatures and no “facsimile” signatures are permitted. Authorized officers that may sign these checks are the Executive Director of the Foundation, Senior Vice President of Finance, Director of Accounting Services, Director of Accounting and the Foundation Administrator. The South Jersey Technology Park at Rowan University checks require original signatures and no “facsimile” signatures are permitted. Authorized officers that may sign these checks are the President, Executive Director of the South Jersey Technology Park at Rowan University, Senior Vice President of Finance of Rowan University and the Treasurer of the South Jersey Technology Park at Rowan University.

  4. All University Accounts Payable disbursement checks that exceed $15,000, excluding student refunds, require two signatures; one signature must be an original. Student refund checks that exceed $10,000 require two signatures. All Rowan University Foundation disbursement checks over $1,000 require two original signatures. All South Jersey Technology Park at Rowan University checks over $10,000 require two original signatures.


Attachment 8
 Check Cycle Disbursement


Accounts Payable produces all checks on local MICR Laser printers. Regular check runs are completed Monday, Wednesday, and Friday of each week.

  1. Banner Finance batch check/direct deposit process.
    1. This produces the check or Direct Deposit file.
  2. Evisions Intelle-Check Print Program
    1. This program produces the actual checks by check type (payroll or general disbursement).
  3. Intelle-Check Audit Reports
    1. These reports show the actual number of checks produced by payee and dollar amount. The dollar totals must agree with the Banner Finance reports.
  4. Intelle-Check Positive Pay
    1. This anti-fraud program generates a file that is sent to the bank prior to the issuance of checks.
  5. Check Cycle Disbursement Report
    1. This worksheet verifies all data produced. It is maintained in Accounts Payable for audit purposes. This worksheet is completed by either the Director of Accounts Payable or the Accounts Payable Office Supervisor and reviewed by the Senior Vice President of Finance, Assist VP of Finance/Controller and the Director of Accounting or Bursar.
    2. This worksheet includes a summary of the number of checks per bank, dollar amount per bank and the register and audit trail of all of the checks.
  6. Accounts Payable Department
    1. Check Cycle is validated in accordance to this policy.
    2. Accounts Payable Staff reviews the check cycle for accuracy and completeness.
  7. Accounting Service
    1. Check Cycle Disbursement Report is distributed to the designee for review and signature where required, per this policy.
    2. Report is returned to Accounts Payable Department upon completion.
  8. Accounts Payable Department
    1. Distributes the checks accordingly.

**Demand checks are run as requested. Proper paperwork is required at all times. Members of the Accounts Payables staff enter these requests into the Banner Finance system. The process to complete a regular check run is followed to produce the check.

Attachment 9
Types of Payment Requests


  1. Regular Payment Requests
    Payment requests are entered into the Banner Finance system from invoices received for payment as a result of a University purchase order, Miscellaneous Disbursement Voucher (MDV), Travel expense or batch file request. Various voucher forms indicate types of payments and/or special handling instructions (e.g., enclosures, payroll-related items, bursar-related items, etc.) and are used to collate the different payment requests.

  2. Demand Payment Requests
    Payment requests are handled as required. The need for immediate payment, outside the normal processing periods, are reviewed and approved as needed.       

  3. Electronic Payment Requests
    Payment requests that are sent via Wire or ACH (Automated Clearing House) for the same type of invoices listed above.

  4. Types of Checks:
    Self-sealing checks are used for all types of payments.

  5. Checks that require special handling:
    1. Enclosures for documents without invoice numbers
    2. Student-related refunds
    3. Rowan University Foundation payments
    4. South Jersey Technology Park payments
    5. Demand checks
    6. Payroll-related items

Attachment 10
Wire Transfer Request Procedure


  1. Wire Transfer Request is appropriate under specific conditions, such as payment of a foreign vendor, tax remittance and when no other source of payment is accepted. Only appropriate authorized individuals may initiate the transaction. Supporting documentation is required to complete the transaction. Wires are processed by the Finance Division after all appropriate approvals have been met.

  2. If you are submitting a Wire Transfer:
    1. Complete the Wire Transfer Request Form
    2. Ensure Banking Information is correct “vendor’s banking information"
    3. Payee Name (must be exactly the same as the name on the bank account)
      1. Bank Name
      2. Bank Physical Address
      3. Swift Code
      4. Account Number
      5. International Routing Number
      6. All documentation (including the invoice) must be in English  
      7. Supporting documentation and invoice
      8. Form must have appropriate approvals before submitting to AP
      9. Once AP receives the document – wire is processed and submitted to Accounting Services for second approval
      10. Accounting Services reconciles at the end of each month and enters a journal entry to clear expense of wire to proper FOAPAL
  3. Notes for Departments:
    1. If the dollar amount changes due to foreign exchange rates, AP will change the amount on the Wire form to match.
    2. Domestic transactions should be completed as direct deposits not wire transfers, whenever possible.
    3. Due to East Coast banking times, all wires must be submitted to Accounts Payable by 10 a.m. for same day processing.
    4. If there are any questions about the Foreign Wire Transfer Process, please email the Accounts Payable Director prior to submitting the Wire Transfer Request.

**For forms visit Account Payable website and click on tab call “Forms”