How To Fix 3W004 - &1 is not a valid Reference number

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 3W - HR: Message Class South Africa

• Message number: 004

• Message text: &1 is not a valid Reference number

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 3W004 - &1 is not a valid Reference number ?

  The SAP error message "3W004 &1 is not a valid Reference number" typically indicates that the reference number you are trying to use in a transaction or process does not exist or is not recognized by the system. This can occur in various contexts, such as during invoice processing, payment processing, or when referencing documents in SAP.
  Causes:
  
  Incorrect Reference Number: The reference number entered may be mistyped or incorrect.
  Non-Existent Document: The reference number may refer to a document that has been deleted or does not exist in the system.
  Document Status: The document associated with the reference number may be in a status that does not allow it to be referenced (e.g., archived or blocked).
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary permissions to access the document associated with the reference number.
  Data Synchronization Issues: If the system is integrated with other systems, there may be synchronization issues leading to the reference number not being recognized.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Verify the Reference Number: Double-check the reference number for any typographical errors. Ensure that you are using the correct format and that it corresponds to an existing document.
  Check Document Existence: Use transaction codes like SE16 or SE11 to check if the document associated with the reference number exists in the relevant database tables.
  Review Document Status: Ensure that the document is not archived or in a status that prevents it from being referenced.
  User Authorization: Check if the user has the necessary authorizations to access the document. If not, contact your SAP security administrator to grant the required permissions.
  Consult with IT Support: If the issue persists, it may be beneficial to consult with your IT support team or SAP Basis team to investigate any potential system issues or data inconsistencies.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SE16 (Data Browser), SE11 (Data Dictionary), and others that may help in troubleshooting.
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error message or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation or user manuals related to the specific module you are working with (e.g., FI, MM, SD) for more context on how reference numbers are handled.
  
  If you continue to experience issues, providing additional context about the specific transaction or process you are working on may help in diagnosing the problem further.