University System of New Hampshire

06 - 008 What is a Purchase Order?

A Purchase Order Is...

  • A purchase order is the official and binding document issued to the vendor authorizing the expenditure of USNH funds for goods and/or services.
  • A purchase order creates an encumbrance that will help manage budget and facilitate vendor payment.
  • By using the purchase order, everyone involved in the purchase process can track the order by referring to the same purchase order number as a standard reference.

Standard USNH Terms and Conditions are part of the USNH PO generated and sent to vendors for each order made.


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