Ardent Partners – Key AP Metrics That Matter in 2025

In 2025, accounts payable (AP) is at a turning point.

The rapid adoption of AI, automation, and digital transformation is redefining how AP teams operate—turning them into strategic hubs that drive efficiency, cost savings, and financial insights.

The latest report from Ardent Partners, “AP Metrics That Matter in 2025”, reveals key benchmarks and trends shaping the industry. Backed by insights from over 200 AP professionals, the report highlights AP’s evolving role, the challenges it faces, and the technologies poised to transform it.

Why AP Matters More Than Ever

Traditionally seen as a back-office function, AP has emerged as a critical driver of financial and operational success. AP teams now play a major role in cash management, supplier relationships, and fraud prevention—key functions in today’s volatile economy.

Here are some key AP metrics and trends for 2025:

1. AI and Automation Are Reshaping AP

• 75% of AP teams are now leveraging AI in some capacity.
• 61% of professionals believe AI will have either a transformational or significant impact on AP operations this year.
• AI-driven invoice processing, fraud detection, and data analytics are unlocking efficiencies and reducing manual work.

2. Invoice Processing Time and Costs Still Lag Behind

• The average time to process an invoice is 9.2 days, showing room for improvement.
• The cost per invoice averages $9.40, but best-in-class AP teams have reduced this to just $2.78 through automation.

3. Exception Rates and AP Bottlenecks

• 53% of AP professionals cite invoice exceptions as their biggest challenge.
• Exception rates have dropped to 14% in 2024, but reducing this further is key to improving efficiency.

4. The Rise of ePayments and AP-Treasury Collaboration

• 68.3% of all payments in 2025 are now electronic (ACH, virtual cards, etc.).
• 65% of AP teams now actively support cash management, working closely with treasury to optimize payments.

5. Touchless Processing: The End Goal for AP?

• Currently, 32.6% of invoices are processed without human intervention.
• Best-in-Class AP teams have achieved 49.2% touchless processing, showing the potential for further automation.

The Road Ahead for AP Leaders

The report makes one thing clear: AP is no longer just about processing invoices—it’s about driving business impact.

Organizations that fail to modernize their AP functions risk inefficiencies, fraud vulnerabilities, and higher costs.

As AP continues its rapid evolution, now is the time to invest in technology that drives efficiency and maximizes financial control.

Gain Access to the Full Report

Want to stay ahead of the curve in AP performance and industry benchmarks? Get exclusive insights into the latest trends, key metrics, and best practices shaping accounts payable in 2025.

Access the full “AP Metrics That Matter in 2025” report from Ardent Partners and gain the knowledge you need to optimize your AP operations.