Which statement best describes petty cash?

Petty cash is best described as a small cash reserve used for minor expenses. Businesses maintain a petty cash fund to facilitate quick and easy payments for small purchases, such as office supplies, postage, or employee reimbursements, without the need to go through more formal purchasing processes or writing checks. This allows for greater efficiency in handling minor expenditures that may arise unexpectedly.

The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of petty cash. For instance, it is not used for large purchases, which would typically require more formal funding sources or processes. It also does not serve as a bank account for business savings, as petty cash is intended for immediate, small-scale transactions rather than for accumulating funds. Lastly, it does not represent a credit arrangement with vendors, since petty cash involves cash transactions rather than credit agreements. Understanding these distinctions solidifies the understanding of how petty cash functions within a business's overall financial management.