Problems of accounting for settlements with suppliers and contractors

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to formulate practical recommendations for improving accounting and improving methods of internal control of mutual settlements with suppliers and contractors, taking into account the insufficient development of issues of methodology, organization of accounting, documentation and automation of settlement operations, especially in the conditions of martial law. To achieve the goal, the methods of analysis and synthesis were used (when studying the current state and problems of accounting), systematization and generalization (when forming a classification of problems and practical recommendations), as well as a logical approach (when justifying the need to improve the accounting system). The study is based on the analysis of the current legal framework of Ukraine. As a result of the study, the key importance of accounting for payments with suppliers and contractors for the financial stability and solvency of the enterprise is substantiated. The main problems in this area were identified and classified according to the following groups: problems with document circulation (lateness, errors in registration, loss of documents, duplication); problems of inventory and reconciliation (lack of regular inventory, discrepancies in Acts of reconciliation, difficulty in accounting for advances); methodological and technical aspects (incorrect use of accounts, difficulties in accounting for transactions in foreign currency and exchange rate differences, shortcomings of automation); problems of control and analysis (lack of operational control of payment terms, insufficient detailing of analytical accounting, risk of fraud). Practical recommendations are proposed for improving the settlement management system, including: creating a system of preliminary assessment of the supplier, implementing a form of analytical accounting (for example, a special debt table), clear regulation of document flow, strengthening internal control and creating reserves for doubtful debts. Effective elimination of identified problems requires a comprehensive approach, which includes: introduction of a strict document management policy, ensuring regular and accurate reconciliation with counterparties, automation of accounting processes and establishment of effective internal control. Further improvement is also possible through the unification of the accounting system with international standards, taking into account national specifics and adaptation to wartime conditions (strengthening control over payables, use of digital tools).