This is what happens in the video
Before you post a subscription invoice in Business Central, you can use the standard Preview Posting function to see exactly what the system will post. This lets you verify VAT handling and the G/L entries that will be generated before you commit anything.
Preview Posting is especially useful the first time you use the subscription billing app or when your process is new. You can confirm that you have mapped accounts correctly and set up your posting groups the way you intended.
If you use a deferral code, the system spreads the revenue across the deferral period. For a 12-month deferral, the preview shows a large number of G/L entries because the system books the amount in and out each month over the 12 months.
How to preview a subscription invoice before posting
When you have a generated subscription invoice and want to check what will actually be posted, use the standard Preview Posting function at the top of the document. The preview shows you what the system will post when you click the Post action, so there are no surprises afterwards.
From the preview you can drill into the details. You can check how the system handles VAT, which G/L entries are created, and the rest of the entries that result from posting.
How deferral codes affect the number of G/L entries
If the invoice has a deferral code, the system defers the amount over the chosen period. With a 12-month deferral, this generates a large number of G/L entries because the amount is recognised in and out each month across all 12 months.
If you are not using deferral, the preview shows far fewer G/L entries. Either way, the preview gives you a clear picture of what will be posted.
When you should use Preview Posting
You do not need to run Preview Posting every single time you post an invoice. It is most relevant in these situations:
- You are using the app for the first time
- Your process is new and you want to confirm it works as expected
- You have created new posting groups or changed the setup behind the system
In these cases, Preview Posting is a quick way to make sure your accounts are mapped correctly and your posting setup is in order before you commit the actual posting.
Q&A
How do I check what will be posted on a subscription invoice in Business Central?
Use the standard Preview Posting function at the top of the invoice. It shows you exactly what the system will post, including VAT and the G/L entries, before you click the Post action.
Why does my subscription invoice generate so many G/L entries?
If the invoice has a deferral code, the system defers the amount over the period. For a 12-month deferral, it recognises the amount in and out each month across all 12 months, which creates a large number of G/L entries. Without deferral, the preview shows far fewer entries.
Do I need to use Preview Posting every time I post an invoice?
No. It is most useful when you use the app for the first time, when your process is new, or when you have created new posting groups or changed the setup. In those cases it helps you confirm that accounts are mapped correctly and the posting setup is right.