Financial Management

The Vendor Onboarding Experience

Welcome to the Vendor Onboarding Hub. Find all the forms and steps you need to do business with the City. Read our FAQ for answers to common questions.

Below are questions and answers to guide vendors through the necessary steps and ensure seamless collaboration.

FAQ

• Does having a contract guarantee payment?

  No. A contract does not guarantee payment. You must get a Purchase Order (PO) before you start work. The City cannot pay you without a PO.

• Why is referencing the PO important in invoices?

  A Purchase Order (PO) is a written order from the City that lets us pay you. Do not start work until you have a PO.
  
  Always put the PO number on your invoice. This helps us track your work and pay you faster. Also name the correct department and person — not just “City”.

• What causes delayed payments?

  Common causes of delay:

  • No invoice sent or invoice has wrong details.
  • No Purchase Order (PO).
  • Invoice sent to the wrong person or department.

• How to email accounts payable:

  Email the two-letter department code to acctspay@longbeach.gov.
  
  Example: FM-AcctsPay@longbeach.gov