> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://smartbooks.gitbook.io/smartbooks-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://smartbooks.gitbook.io/smartbooks-docs/faq/why-did-my-reporting-period-not-automatically-go-to-the-next-period.md).

# Why did my reporting period not automatically go to the next period?

Reporting periods in Smartbooks **do not automatically move forward**. This is by design, to give you control over when a new period becomes active.

Before moving to the next period, Smartbooks allows administrators to:

* Review the data for the next period
* Validate reports and inputs
* Ensure figures are complete and correct

Only after a period is **explicitly published** will it become the active reporting period for all users.

#### What to check

If your reporting period did not move forward, verify that:

* The next period has been **published** (not just previewed)
* You have sufficient permissions (Admin role) to publish periods
* All required checks for the current period are completed

#### Why this matters

This approach prevents users from seeing incomplete or unverified data and ensures that reporting periods only advance when you are ready.