Map Bank reference when the export provides a real transaction identifier, check number or similar source reference. This optional field can help distinguish movements that share a date, merchant and amount.
- Identify the source reference column and check several values against the bank record.
- Map it to Bank reference without changing the identifiers.
- Review the row beside its date and amount to confirm the correct field was selected.
If no source reference exists, leave the optional mapping unset. Do not manufacture an identifier or copy a running balance into it.
Preserve formatting
Spreadsheet applications can remove leading zeros or convert long references into scientific notation. Check the exported text against the original and keep identifiers as text where necessary.
A reference supports investigation but does not replace source review. A malformed file can repeat an identifier, while two separate legitimate purchases can look similar in other fields. Keep the original export and use the saved duplicate decisions to explain the final result rather than assuming one optional field settles every matching question.
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