What is the function of the "document header" in SAP FI?

The "document header" in SAP FI plays a crucial role by containing general information about the financial transaction. This includes key details such as the posting date, document type, and company code, which are essential for identifying and processing the transaction correctly. The document header serves as a point of reference for the entire accounting document, linking various line items and ensuring consistency in financial reporting.

It doesn't summarize all financial transactions for a reporting period, as that function is more aligned with financial statements or reports. The document header does not encrypt sensitive financial information; instead, security features in SAP handle data protection. Lastly, while data storage is a function of the overall system, the document header specifically serves a more dynamic purpose by facilitating the integration and processing of financial data across the system.