Purchasing Card Introduction: What, Why, How, Who

Purchasing Card Introduction

A Purchasing Card (P‑Card) is a type of Commercial Card that allows organizations to take advantage of the existing credit card infrastructure to make business-to-business (B2B) electronic payments for a variety of business expenses (goods and services). Utilize the resources below to learn more. See also information on Travel Cards, One Cards and ePayables.

What are P-Cards?	Why Use P-Cards?	How P-Cards Work
Start here to learn more about what P-Cards are, access historical insight on Commercial Cards and review definitions of other types of cards.	Understand the benefits of P-Cards, such as how they can simplify the purchase-to-pay process and improve efficiencies.	Gain an understanding of the P-Card process and parties involved, such as issuers, acquirers, networks and processors.
Implementing a P-Card Program	Additional Educational Resources	Free Industry Provider Directory
Set the stage for P-Card program implementation success, which begins with thorough planning prior to conducting a request for proposal (RFP) process to select a card issuer.	Visit the Resource Center, featuring more than a dozen different sections on P-Card and related topics. Uncertain about industry terms? The Commercial Card and Payment Glossary is a great go-to resource.	Seeking industry product and technology providers? Make the NAPCP's Annual Provider Directory your first stop. Don't forget about the NAPCP's Partner Sponsors—industry leaders in their respective fields!

Available for Purchase

Purchasing Card Essentials: The NAPCP's Guide to Establishing and Managing a Program

With 170 pages of content, including graphs, instructions and examples, Essentials supports your organization's implementation and program management processes every step of the way.
Become an NAPCP member to obtain the best pricing plus access to materials in the Resource Center and more.