Search Results ar_receipt_methods

The AR_RECEIPT_METHODS table in Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) 12.1.1 and 12.2.2 is a critical component of the Accounts Receivable (AR) module, storing configuration data for defining how customer payments are processed. This table serves as the foundation for managing receipt methods, which determine the payment instruments, clearing mechanisms, and accounting treatments for incoming receipts. Below is a detailed technical and functional analysis of this table.

1. Purpose and Functional Role

The AR_RECEIPT_METHODS table stores master data for all receipt methods configured in the system. A receipt method defines:

• The payment medium (e.g., check, credit card, wire transfer, cash).
• Clearing rules (e.g., bank accounts for deposits).
• Accounting rules (GL accounts for offset entries).
• Processing workflows (e.g., automatic vs. manual approval).

Receipt methods are assigned to customers or transaction types to standardize payment processing.

2. Key Columns and Structure

The table contains the following critical columns:

• RECEIPT_METHOD_ID: Primary key, uniquely identifying each receipt method.
• NAME: User-defined name (e.g., "CHECK," "CREDIT CARD").
• TYPE: Classifies the method (e.g., 'AUTOMATIC', 'MANUAL', 'MISC').
• STATUS: Active ('A') or Inactive ('I').
• CREATION_DATE, CREATED_BY, LAST_UPDATE_DATE, LAST_UPDATED_BY: Standard Oracle audit columns.
• REMITTANCE_FLAG: Indicates if remittance advice is required (Y/N).
• BANK_ACCOUNT_ID: Links to CE_BANK_ACCOUNTS for automatic bank deposits.
• GL_ID_CCID: GL account for credit card receipts (if applicable).

3. Integration Points

The table integrates with:

• AR_CASH_RECEIPTS: References RECEIPT_METHOD_ID to track payment methods for individual receipts.
• HZ_CUST_PROFILE_AMTS: Assigns default receipt methods to customer profiles.
• CE_PAYMENT_DOCUMENTS: Maps receipt methods to payment documents (e.g., checks).
• Oracle Payments: For credit card and electronic payment processing.

4. Technical Considerations

• Indexes: Primary key index on RECEIPT_METHOD_ID; secondary indexes may exist on NAME and TYPE.
• API Dependencies: The AR_RECEIPT_METHODS_PKG PL/SQL package manages CRUD operations.
• Upgrades: Data is preserved during upgrades from 12.1.1 to 12.2.2, but customizations may require validation.

5. Configuration Best Practices

• Use descriptive NAME values to ensure clarity in reporting.
• Leverage TYPE to enforce consistent processing workflows.
• Inactivate (STATUS = 'I') unused methods instead of deleting to maintain referential integrity.
• Validate BANK_ACCOUNT_ID mappings to avoid settlement errors.

6. Common Use Cases

• Automating lockbox processing via TYPE = 'AUTOMATIC' methods.
• Configuring credit card settlements by linking to Oracle Payments.
• Generating remittance advice for methods with REMITTANCE_FLAG = 'Y'.

7. Audit and Security

The table is protected by Oracle EBS' standard data security models. Access typically requires:

• AR_RECEIPT_METHODS responsibility or equivalent.
• Privileges to the "Receipt Methods" form (Navigation: AR > Setup > Receipts > Receipt Methods).

Conclusion

The AR_RECEIPT_METHODS table is a cornerstone of Oracle AR's payment processing framework. Proper configuration ensures accurate cash application, reduces manual effort, and maintains audit trails. Administrators should rigorously validate mappings to downstream systems (e.g., Cash Management, GL) to prevent reconciliation issues.