NetSuite 2026.1 Release: Key Updates That Improve Financial Control, AI and Security 

NetSuite’s 2026.1 update introduces smarter automation, stronger financial controls and more AI-powered insights across the platform. Production upgrades will begin rolling out in mid-February and continue through the end of April, with each account receiving its upgrade on a scheduled date that can be viewed in the New Release portlet on your NetSuite dashboard. Here is a quick look at the improvements your teams will notice most with the 2026.1 release.

NetSuite now supports line-level journal updates through unique journal line keys, which makes journal entries easier and safer to update, especially for companies that rely on integrations. You can also change posting periods on journals that are still waiting for approval, which reduces rework and prevents mis-posted entries. Revenue recognition becomes more flexible with additional filters and broader rule criteria. Reclassification journals now auto-approve as well, which helps streamline the close process.

NetSuite continues to lean into AI in practical ways. The new AI-powered Close Manager Dashboard highlights missing transactions, variances and close-cycle risks, helping teams spot issues earlier in the month end process. NetSuite also introduces Payment Date Predictions that use machine learning to estimate when invoices will be paid, giving teams better insight for cash flow forecasting.

A critical security update in NetSuite 2026.1 focuses on modern authentication and integration standards. Token-Based Authentication (TBA) will no longer support new integrations beginning in 2027.1, meaning OAuth 2.0 will be the required approach moving forward. Multi-session access now requires users to have roles protected by two-factor authentication. On the integration side, developers gain new REST operations, including batch processing and create form requests, which improve efficiency and reduce manual handling.

The NetSuite update also introduces more control and visibility into banking and cash management processes. Bank imports can now run on custom schedules rather than a single daily window, and administrators have full control over the exact start date for imports. Teams can also request on-demand transaction updates whenever needed. NetSuite has standardized import error codes, too, removing the guesswork when something fails.

For teams that manage a high volume of inventory, the NetSuite 2026.1 release introduces Consigned Inventory Management that provides true vendor-managed tracking from receipt through consumption. Warehouse Management receives several quality improvements, including support for entering landed-costs during receiving, reversing inbound shipments, and handling zero quantity or backordered picks with more accuracy.

Pricing becomes more adaptable with the new Advanced Pricing rules that allow automated pricing based on customers, items, or date ranges. A new Cost-Plus method is available as well, which applies markup to Average Cost or a defined Cost for Pricing value. This is especially helpful for items with dynamic or fluctuating costs.

Several SuiteApps receive meaningful updates. Ship Central now supports HIBC barcode scanning, larger bulk shipping thresholds, and pickup and drop off workflows. Quality Management introduces automated sampling calculations, and Intelligent Payment Automation now supports vendors with multiple subsidiaries and makes cleared check images easier to view.

The NetSuite 2026.1 release introduces several changes that can directly impact how finance, operations and IT teams work inside the system. Understanding which updates apply to your environment, especially around integrations, authentication and close management, is key to getting the most value from 2026.1. If you would like help reviewing how these changes affect your account, our team is ready to assist.

Author: Casey Blake | [email protected]