The invoice will be matched with the executed purchase order and receiving document. In case a properly executed purchase order does not exist, the invoice will be sent back to the vendor and/or the department indicating that the purchasing process must be initiated prior to invoice payment. Invoices will be paid promptly if the above procedures are followed. Delaying payment to a vendor can result in the vendor placing American University on credit hold. Eventually, AU may pay higher prices to offset the vendor’s collection costs which in turn can downgrade AU’s credit status with not only the vendor, but with credit bureaus. Invoices should be sent to Accounts Payable for processing, not to the Procurement and Contracts Department. In case of discrepancies between the invoice, the purchase order, and the packing slip, the documentation will be routed back to the initiating AU employee for explanation and further authentication of the actual goods ordered and delivered. EACH INVOICE MUST BE APPROVED (SIGNED) AND MARKED WITH AN “O.K. TO PAY”, OR THE PURCHSE ORDER IN DATATEL MUST BE ENTERED AS RECEIVED. Invoices received for goods and services rendered outside of the Purchasing process may not be processed for payment or may be delayed considerably.