Blanket Authorization
Financial Dictionary — Procurement Authority
Definition
is direct authority to act without having to gain approval for each action. For example: "Blanket authorization was given to him for all his business travel".
Detailed Explanation
Blanket authorization is a general approval allowing actions without requesting approval each time, within defined limits. It is used to speed routine decisions while maintaining overall control.
Common Uses
- Used in the purchase-to-pay cycle to validate invoices, approvals, and supporting documents.
- Used to strengthen internal controls over purchasing and supplier payments.
- Used to strengthen internal controls over purchasing and supplier payments.
Practical Example
- Example: Before payment, the AP team applies **Blanket Authorization** to confirm the invoice matches the approved purchase documentation.
Why This Term Matters
- Why it matters: Prevents incorrect/duplicate payments, reduces fraud risk, and improves accuracy of payables and expenses.