Controlled Payment Numbers (CPNs) which issue as a unique payment number for each transaction uniquely identify the transaction for matching the purchase and payment information. The issuance of the CPN is controlled by business rules which are designed to and effectively restrict the use of the CPN, such that if a user exceeds his authorization, a CPN is not issued. The business rules are set up according to a hierarchy of users. Further, a declining balance CPN is also provided.