What it means
Reconciliation compares records from different sources and documents how they relate. In accommodation it can connect bookings, guest charges, commissions, refunds, payouts and bank transactions. Two equal amounts do not prove they represent the same transaction.
Why it matters
It replaces “looks paid” with a verifiable explanation. It also distinguishes timing differences from actual errors: a payment sent yesterday may be absent from today’s statement. The goal is to identify and resolve exceptions with evidence.
An example in practice
A channel report shows a COP 1,250,000 payout. The bank records COP 1,245,000. A documented COP 5,000 bank fee explains the difference. Without supporting evidence, that amount remains unresolved; it should not be invented as an expense just to close the month.
A mistake to avoid
Matching only on amount is unreliable when several transactions have equal values. Use references, currency, dates and breakdowns. Avoid assigning a refund to an unrelated reservation simply because doing so makes the total balance.
Put it into practice
- Connect identifiers from the channel, processor, reservation and bank.
- Record differences with a reason, evidence and responsible person.
- Carry unresolved items across periods until their resolution is verifiable.
A common question
Does complete reconciliation prove profitability?
No. It establishes relationships between records and movements within the reviewed scope. Profit analysis also needs costs, accruals and consistent accounting policies. A reconciled bank balance does not replace a period’s operating result.