How to Unlock a Period in Xero

Updated on:

May 12, 2026

By:

Use this interactive demo to learn how to remove a lock date and reopen a financial period in Xero.

Quick summary

Unlocking a period in Xero means removing a lock date in Financial Settings so that transactions can be edited in a previously closed accounting period. This is done through the Accounting menu under Advanced settings, and takes effect immediately after saving.

Steps

On the Xero dashboard, go to the top menu bar and click Accounting.
Choose Advanced from the dropdown list of options.
Click Financial Settings to proceed to the settings page.
Scroll down to the Lock Dates section, tap the input field, and delete the date shown.
Click Save to apply the changes.
The lock date is now removed, unlocking your Xero financial reporting period.

📌 Why this matters

Locking accounting periods in Xero prevents unauthorized or accidental changes to finalized financial data, but there are legitimate scenarios — such as correcting an error or processing a late entry — where a bookkeeper or accountant needs to reopen a closed period. Knowing how to unlock a period in Xero's Financial Settings gives finance teams the flexibility to maintain accurate books without creating a new organization or losing historical data. This process is essential for businesses that need to stay compliant with accounting standards while still being able to correct past records. Mastering Xero's lock date feature helps accountants balance data integrity with the practical needs of day-to-day financial management.

Your product deserves an interactive demo

Start free

How to Unlock Accounts in Xero When the Password is Forgotten

How to Record an Overpayment in Xero

How to Cancel the Xero Free Trial Subscription