How To Fix 6D397 - Warning: this will cause a retroactive change to an advance payment

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 6D - Real Estate Messages

• Message number: 397

• Message text: Warning: this will cause a retroactive change to an advance payment

What causes this issue?

You have made a retroactive change to an advance payment.

System Response

The system will therefore also create corresponding credits if a
settlement has already been carried out for the affected rental unit in
the specified period.

How to fix this error?

If you really want to carry out the change, make sure that no
settlements have been carried out for the corresponding rental unit in
the affected period.
If not, enter a future date as the start date for the validity period
of the condition.

Procedure for System Administrators

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 6D397 - Warning: this will cause a retroactive change to an advance payment ?

  The SAP error message 6D397 indicates that a transaction or action you are attempting to perform will lead to a retroactive change in an advance payment. This typically occurs in the context of financial transactions, particularly when dealing with advance payments, invoices, or adjustments in accounts payable.
  Cause:
  The warning is triggered when:
  
  You are trying to post a document that affects an advance payment that has already been made.
  The changes you are making (like adjusting amounts, changing payment terms, or modifying related documents) will retroactively affect the accounting entries related to that advance payment.
  The system is alerting you that this could lead to inconsistencies in financial reporting or accounting records.
  
  Solution:
  To address this warning, consider the following steps:
  
  
  Review the Transaction: Check the details of the transaction you are trying to post. Ensure that the changes you are making are necessary and justified.
  
  
  Understand the Impact: Assess how the retroactive change will affect your financial records. It may be necessary to consult with your finance team or accounting department to understand the implications.
  
  
  Adjust the Advance Payment: If the advance payment needs to be adjusted, consider doing so explicitly rather than making indirect changes that could lead to confusion.
  
  
  Post with Caution: If you decide to proceed with the transaction despite the warning, ensure that you document the reasons for the change and communicate with relevant stakeholders to avoid misunderstandings.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on handling advance payments and related transactions.
  
  
  Test in a Sandbox Environment: If possible, replicate the transaction in a test or sandbox environment to see the effects without impacting live data.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific guidance or patches related to this error message.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes (like FB60 for invoices, F-28 for incoming payments) that may be involved in the process.
  User Roles: Ensure that you have the appropriate authorizations to make changes to advance payments and related transactions.
  Training: If you frequently encounter this warning, consider additional training on SAP financial processes to better understand how to manage advance payments and their implications.
  
  By following these steps, you can effectively manage the warning and ensure that your financial records remain accurate and compliant.