A receipt covers several currencies: retain the transaction and conversion evidence

Multi-currency receipt evidence should explain the original transaction, the amount settled and any conversion or fee components. A receipt showing several currency figures does not tell the bookkeeper which figure belongs in each record. Keep the original document and bank or card evidence together.

Identify what each amount represents

Record the supplier, purchase date, goods or service and currencies shown. Separate the listed price, converted payment amount and any separately disclosed charge. Keep refund or reversal documents linked to the same purchase.

Do not select the largest or smallest figure merely because it agrees with a budget or expense claim.

Compare the settlement record

Match the receipt to the card or bank line using dates and transaction references. Note whether the payment provider combined a fee with the principal amount or charged it separately.

Ask the accountant which conversion evidence and accounting policy apply. The settlement date and transaction date can differ, so a variance should not be labelled an error before the facts are checked.

Example: foreign price with a Singapore-dollar option

A supplier receipt shows a foreign-currency price and an accepted Singapore-dollar converted total. The card statement may then show that settled amount with another charge. Retain the actual payment choice and fee evidence instead of converting the foreign amount again without reviewing what was paid.

A purchase ledger conversion and a GST reporting requirement are also separate questions. Do not assume one exchange figure satisfies every purpose.

Leave a reproducible trail

Keep the accepted currency, amount, rate reference and fee allocation with the entry. Reconcile later refunds using their own evidence. Another bookkeeper should be able to reproduce the recorded amount without guessing which of the receipt’s currencies was used.

Related practical guidance

For the surrounding records and responsibilities, see bookkeeping basics, company records to keep, bookkeeping and accounting.

Official guidance: IRAS official guidance.

Help with your company records

For accounting, bookkeeping and related compliance support, contact Raffles Corporate Services at [email protected] or WhatsApp +65 8501 7133. Tell us which records or process need attention so we can discuss the relevant next steps.