Petty cash is a term used to describe a small amount of cash kept for incidental expenses in a business or household. The spelling of the word "petty" comes from the Middle English word "petit", meaning "small" or "minor". The correct pronunciation of "petty cash" is /ˈpɛti kæʃ/ with the first syllable pronounced as "pet-ee" and the second syllable pronounced as "cash" with a short "a" sound. Proper spelling and pronunciation of "petty cash" ensure clear communication in financial transactions.
Petty cash refers to a small amount of money kept on hand by a business or organization for minor expenses or emergency needs. It is typically used to cover daily expenditures that arise spontaneously and do not warrant the writing of a check or a larger cash withdrawal from the company's bank account.
The purpose of petty cash is to facilitate the process of reimbursing employees for small, incidental purchases, such as office supplies, postage, cab fare, or small repairs. It provides a convenient and immediate method for handling these minor expenses without going through the formalities of a regular financial transaction.
Typically, the petty cash fund is controlled by a designated custodian or cashier, who is responsible for maintaining accurate records of transactions and ensuring that the cash is used for appropriate purposes. The fund is replenished periodically, usually through a reimbursement process, where the custodian presents receipts and documentation to request the necessary reimbursement for the amount spent.
Since petty cash is a small amount of money, it is often kept in a locked cash box or drawer to prevent unauthorized access. This helps maintain accountability and prevent any potential misuse or fraudulent activities.
Petty cash is an essential element in the financial management of a business, as it allows for the efficient management of minor expenses with minimal administrative burden.
The word "petty cash" has a straightforward etymology. The term "petty" has its origin in the Old French word "petit", meaning "small" or "minor". "Cash" is an old English word that originated from the French word "caisse", which refers to a money box or a case for money. So, "petty cash" essentially means a small amount of money kept on hand for minor expenses.