Connected record path
Returns and credit workflow
A credit note reverses value that has already been invoiced, so it should be the last document in a return, not the first. Authorise, inspect, then credit.
Each step keeps its own record. Retain the source document rather than editing it, and review dates, parties, references, and totals before the new document becomes part of your work history.
Authorise the return
Issue a return authorisation with the original invoice number and the reason. Goods arriving without one cannot be matched to anything.
Inspect what came back
Record quantity and condition on arrival. Whether the goods are resaleable decides how much credit is actually due.
Credit the confirmed amount
Issue the credit note for the inspected quantity only, referencing the original invoice. Never delete or edit the original invoice to achieve the same result.