Petty cash policy (New York): Free template

Petty cash policy (New York): Free template

Petty cash policy (New York)

This petty cash policy is designed to help New York businesses establish clear guidelines for the use, management, and tracking of petty cash. Whether businesses are managing small, incidental expenses or handling cash disbursements, this template provides a structured approach to ensure proper control and transparency in petty cash transactions.

By adopting this template, businesses can minimize financial risks, maintain accurate records, and ensure responsible use of petty cash funds.

How to use this petty cash policy (New York)

  • Define petty cash purpose: Clearly explain the purpose of petty cash, such as covering small, incidental expenses like office supplies, postage, or employee reimbursements.
  • Set funding limits: Establish a maximum limit for petty cash funds to ensure they are used only for minor, everyday business expenses.
  • Specify authorization procedures: Outline the approval process for accessing petty cash, including who can approve requests and how disbursements are authorized.
  • Include record-keeping requirements: Detail the documentation needed for each petty cash transaction, such as receipts and transaction logs, to track expenses accurately.
  • Define reimbursement process: Provide instructions on how petty cash is replenished and how employees should submit reimbursement requests for expenses that exceed petty cash limits.

Benefits of using a petty cash policy (New York)

This policy offers several benefits for New York businesses:

  • Promotes accountability: Clear guidelines ensure that petty cash is used for its intended purpose and that all transactions are properly documented and tracked.
  • Reduces fraud risks: By setting limits and requiring approval for cash disbursements, businesses can minimize the risk of misuse or theft.
  • Improves financial control: A structured process for managing petty cash helps businesses keep track of small expenses without impacting larger financial systems.
  • Enhances transparency: Maintaining accurate records of petty cash transactions promotes transparency and reduces the potential for misunderstandings or disputes.
  • Streamlines processes: Having a clear policy in place reduces confusion and makes it easier to manage petty cash disbursements across the organization.

Tips for using this petty cash policy (New York)

  • Communicate the policy: Ensure that all employees understand the rules regarding petty cash use, including the limits and approval processes.
  • Assign responsibility: Designate a staff member or department responsible for managing petty cash funds, maintaining records, and ensuring compliance with the policy.
  • Monitor usage: Regularly review petty cash transactions to ensure that funds are being used appropriately and in line with business needs.
  • Use secure storage: Store petty cash in a secure, locked location to prevent unauthorized access and reduce the risk of theft.
  • Review regularly: Update the policy as necessary to reflect changes in business operations, expenses, or New York state regulations.

Q: What qualifies as an acceptable petty cash expense?

A: Acceptable expenses typically include small, incidental costs such as office supplies, postage, or minor business-related purchases. All expenses should be reasonable and necessary for business operations.

Q: Who is authorized to use petty cash?

A: Employees who are authorized to access petty cash will be designated by management, and any disbursement should be approved according to the policy.

Q: How is petty cash replenished?

A: Petty cash is replenished when the fund reaches a specified low level, and employees must submit a report and receipts for all disbursed amounts before replenishment.

Q: How should employees report petty cash expenses?

A: Employees should submit a request for petty cash, including supporting receipts or documentation for approval, and keep a detailed record of each transaction.

Q: How often should this policy be reviewed?

A: The policy should be reviewed annually or whenever there are changes in business operations, financial processes, or New York state regulations.


This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.