How To Fix 11271 - Overall limit may not be set below current "actual" value

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 11 - External Services Management

• Message number: 271

• Message text: Overall limit may not be set below current "actual" value

What causes this issue?

You have changed a value limit against which services have already been
entered. The changed limit is lower than the value of the already
entered services. For this reason you cannot save the limit.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Please set the limit to at least the same value as that of the already
entered services performed ("actual" value).

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 11271 - Overall limit may not be set below current "actual" value ?

  The SAP error message 11271, which states "Overall limit may not be set below current 'actual' value," typically occurs in the context of budget management or financial planning within SAP. This error indicates that you are trying to set a new overall limit for a budget or cost center that is lower than the current actual expenditures or commitments already recorded against that budget.
  Cause:
  
  Current Actual Values: The actual values (expenses or commitments) recorded against the budget exceed the new limit you are trying to set.
  Budgeting Rules: SAP has built-in rules to prevent users from setting budget limits that are lower than what has already been spent or committed, to avoid overspending and ensure financial control.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Review Current Actuals: Check the current actual expenditures and commitments against the budget. You can do this by running reports or using transaction codes like S_ALR_87013558 (for budget reports) or S_ALR_87013542 (for actual/commitment reports).
  
  
  Adjust the New Limit: If you still want to set a new overall limit, ensure that it is higher than the current actual value. You can either:
  
  Increase the overall limit to match or exceed the current actuals.
  Reduce the actual expenditures or commitments if possible (e.g., by canceling or adjusting certain transactions).
  
  
  
  Consult with Finance Team: If you are unsure about the appropriate limit or how to adjust the actuals, consult with your finance or budgeting team for guidance.
  
  
  Use Correct Transaction: Ensure you are using the correct transaction code for setting the budget limit. Common transaction codes include KP06 (for cost center planning) or FMBB (for budget adjustments).
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes for budget management, such as FMAVCR01 (for budget availability control) and FMBB (for budget adjustments).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to budget management that might address similar issues.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation or user manuals related to budget management and financial planning for best practices and guidelines.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and effectively manage your budget limits within SAP.