Gather the rebate terms and qualifying purchase evidence before asking the accountant to assess the balance. A target in a sales brochure may differ from the entitlement established by the actual contract.

Accounting records, calculator and glasses on a desk
Illustrative photograph by Cht Gsml.

Identify the measurement period

Locate the agreement, eligible products, purchase threshold, exclusions and rebate calculation. Confirm whether returns, credits, freight or taxes affect the qualifying total. Keep the supplier's purchase report and the company's transaction schedule for the same period.

Ask the accountant to assess whether the facts support recognition, estimation or further investigation under the applicable policy. Avoid posting the marketing headline as an earned rebate without checking the conditions.

Reconcile the threshold

For example, the company appears to reach an annual purchase target, but the supplier excludes returned goods from the total. Compare the individual purchase and credit references and request clarification of the difference. Keep the calculation and supplier response with the review file.

Distinguish a rebate on prior purchases from an incentive tied to separate services or a discount on a future order. Those terms can affect the accounting and GST review, so provide the complete agreement.

Keep the outcome traceable

Record the reviewed amount, basis, period and approval. Reconcile any later credit note or payment to the estimate and explain a difference. Give unresolved supplier queries an owner and follow-up date. Retain the purchase history so the accountant can review the final settlement against the original conclusion.

Related practical guidance

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

Official guidance: the relevant 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.