A cost object line manager workflow adds an extra approval step on top of standard cost object approval. It is used when both the cost object owner and their line manager must review an expense before finance receives it.

Approving expenses using cost objects and line managers

The expense is first routed to the cost object approver. After the cost object approver approves, the expense automatically moves to that approver’s line manager for a second-level review.

Once both approvals are completed, the expense proceeds to Finance for final processing.

This workflow is ideal for businesses:

• High-control environments where cost responsibility and managerial oversight are both required
• Additional internal compliance steps for certain teams or expense types
• Companies with strict multi-level approval chains tied to budget ownership
• This workflow ensures expenses pass through two layers of accountability before reaching Finance.

Using a cost object workflow

This workflow is available as a template in the workflow designer. Select Cost object line manager approval. You can adjust the settings or add additional steps in the flow, as required.