Purchase Order Account Application

The Easy Way to the Largest Selection of Books Online

Our online Purchase order Accounts are a convenient, cost-effective way for libraries, schools, government agencies, and companies to purchase products from Barnes & Noble.com. Our P.O. Accounts are similar to a line of credit, not a credit card; we do not charge interest. When you apply, you will be asked to assign an Account Administrator who will be responsible for adding an removing other authorized users to your P.O. Account. View our Frequently Asked Questions. Apply today and, once approved, enjoy quick and easy online purchases from Barnes & Noble.com!

Please have the following information available before you apply:

  • Billing address and contact information
  • Federal Tax ID # (bypass if you represent the Federal Government)
  • Dun & Bradstreet # (bypass if you represent a library or school, or the Federal, State or Local Government)
  • Bank References (bypass if you represent a library or school, or the Federal, State or Local Government)
  • Credit References (bypass if you represent a library or school, or the Federal, State or Local Government)


Frequently Asked Questions


We have an account at our local Barnes & Noble store. Can we use it online?

Your Barnes & Noble retail store account cannot be used online. You must complete a separate Purchase Order Account application with Barnes & Noble.com. Likewise, you cannot use your online P.O. Account at a Barnes & Noble store. To apply for a P.O. Account for use in Barnes & Noble retail stores, please visit the store nearest you.

What are the terms?

Our terms are NET 30 from the invoice date (i.e., the date the product is shipped).

Is interest charged or are there any fees?

We do not charge interest. We reserve the right to charge a 1.5% per month late payment fee if payment is not received within 30 days of the invoice date.

Does a third party handle your Purchase Order Accounts?

No. Barnes & Noble.com maintains an internal Accounts Receivable team to answer your questions. See contact information below.

Will more than one person be able to use the same Purchase Order Account?

Yes. We include a login and PIN that allow the Account Administrator (named by you during the application) to add or remove the email addresses of all individuals who are authorized to charge an order to your Purchase Order Account. There is no limit to the number of authorized users, and you may add or remove authorized users at any time.

Must we include our own Purchase Order number when charging to our Purchase Order Account?

No. Our web site has a field available if you would like to enter your internal P.O. number, but it is not required. You may simply leave the field blank. If you do provide a P.O. number, your entry will be printed on your invoices and monthly statement to facilitate reconciliation.

Will an invoice arrive in the box with the products we order?

A packing slip is sent with each order, and an invoice will arrive a few days later.

Will you cancel previously placed pending orders if we fall behind on payment?

No. If your account falls past due, we will work with you and/or your Accounts Payable Department to determine a payment schedule. Your orders may go on hold, but we will not cancel previously placed pending orders.

We've been approved for an account, but our credit limit is low. Will you raise it?

If you feel your credit limit is too low, please send us an email (see contact information below). We review all inquiries on a case-by-case basis.

What if I have additional questions about Barnes & Noble.com Purchase Order Accounts?

Contact us by email at billing_questions@book.com, or call 212-414-6000 and ask for Accounts Receivable.

What if I have questions about an order?

Contact Customer Service at support@book.com

Visit our HELP Page to find answers to additional questions.