Use journals for accounting adjustments, not to hide source problems.

Start with the ledger detail

Open the nominal account and inspect the transactions already posted. Use date/type/status filters and source drill-down before deciding that a journal is required. Many apparent ledger errors are actually wrong source coding or settlement allocation.

Create a balanced journal

1. Set the journal date and description.
2. Search the full Chart of Accounts for the required nominal.
3. Enter debit and credit lines.
4. Confirm total debits equal total credits.
5. Post once and review the generated journal number/detail.

Reclassification

Use reclassification when the amount is correct but the nominal presentation is wrong. Where the original source itself is wrong, correct the source through the controlled source workflow so VAT, subledgers and audit trail remain consistent.

Protected periods

A locked accounting period blocks new entries and changes into that period. If a genuine correction is required, use the authorised unlock/correction route and preserve the audit trail rather than changing dates to bypass the lock.

Related help