> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.wafra.sa/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.wafra.sa/accounting/lock-dates.md). # Lock Dates ### Lock Dates Locking the accounting period is necessary to avoid the chances of posting accounting entries into the previous period. In the Odoo Accounting module, you can easily set accounting closing dates from the **Accounting** menu. In this menu, you will get the **Lock Dates** option which directs you to a pop-up window as shown below.

Under the **Management Closing** tab, you can lock specific journal entries by mentioning the **Journal Entries Lock Date** in the respective field. By doing so, Odoo will prevent journal entries creation prior to the defined date except for account users. You can pick a date to lock in the **Tax Return Lock Date** to prevent Tax Returns modifications prior to the defined date (journal entries involving taxes). The Tax Return Lock Date is automatically set when the corresponding journal entry is posted. It is possible to lock all journal entries from the **Accounting Period Closing** tab. Pick a date in the All Users Lock Date field that will prevent journal entry creation or modification prior to the defined date for all users. As a closed period, all accounting operations are prohibited once you set a lock date.