Reconfigure your product IDs

Introduction

Once you create a product ID in Anrok, the system doesn't allow direct editing of its tax configuration. This restriction isn't a limitation—it's a protective feature designed to maintain data integrity and prevent accidental changes to historical transactions. Direct editing could potentially alter past tax calculations, creating compliance issues and audit trail problems.

Reconfigure a product ID

When you need to update a product's tax settings, Anrok uses an archive-and-recreate approach that ensures both flexibility and data protection. This two-step process allows you to implement new tax configurations while preserving the integrity of your transaction history.

Try reconfiguring a product ID in the demo above ☝️

1. In the Anrok app , go to Product IDs. Take me there!
2. Next to a product ID, click the Options Menu button , then select Archive.
3. Once complete, go to Data sources.
4. Under Integration sources, click the Options menu button next to your billing system, then select Configure new products.
5. Under New products detected, select a corresponding Product type and Tax category for each product detected. See Select a tax configuration.
6. If you'd like to assign a Product type and Tax category to multiple products at once, click the checkbox    next to each product, then select Batch assign.
7. When you are finished, scroll down and click Add products.

Handling historical updates

One of the key benefits of Anrok's reconfiguration approach is the protection it provides for past transactions. When you reconfigure a product ID, historical transactions—including those processed under the archived version—retain their original tax calculations. This safeguard prevents accidental changes to completed transactions that could impact your tax filings or compliance status.

This protection is particularly valuable during audit periods, when tax authorities may review historical transactions. By maintaining the original tax treatment for past sales, you can demonstrate that taxes were calculated correctly based on the rules in effect at the time of each transaction.

While the system protects historical data by default, there are situations where you might need to update past transactions to reflect new tax configurations. In these cases, Anrok's support team can assist with reprocessing historical transactions to apply updated tax configurations. You can submit this form to request a bulk reprocessing of transactions based on an updated tax configuration.

Best practices for product reconfiguration

To ensure smooth product reconfigurations and minimize disruption to your operations, follow these essential best practices:

• Plan ahead — Before archiving a product, document the reasons for the change and the differences between old and new configurations. This documentation helps with future audits and team transitions.
• Timing considerations — Schedule reconfigurations during periods of lower transaction volume whenever possible to minimize potential confusion during the transition.
• Communication — Inform relevant team members about the reconfiguration, especially those responsible for product setup, pricing, or tax compliance.

By understanding the archive-and-recreate workflow, you can confidently update your product tax settings while maintaining accurate historical records and ensuring smooth ongoing operations.