How To Fix AJ138 - Control document &1 was deleted; invoicing document &2 was posted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AJ - Billing program

• Message number: 138

• Message text: Control document &1 was deleted; invoicing document &2 was posted

What causes this issue?

Control document &v1& was deleted as a result of the release. Invoicing
document &v2& was generated simulataneously. This document is
associated with actual postings of contract accounting documents.

System Response

The control document is displayed in color on the outsorting list.

How to fix this error?

You are not required to perform any activities.

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 AJ138 - Control document &1 was deleted; invoicing document &2 was posted ?

  The SAP error message AJ138 indicates that a control document has been deleted while an invoicing document has already been posted. This situation typically arises in the context of SAP's logistics and financial modules, particularly when dealing with invoice verification and document control.
  Cause:
  
  Deletion of Control Document: The control document (which could be a purchase order, delivery, or another document type) was deleted after the invoicing document was created. This can happen due to user actions or system processes that remove documents that are no longer needed.
  Inconsistent Data: The deletion of the control document while the invoicing document is still active leads to inconsistencies in the database, as the invoicing document relies on the control document for validation and processing.
  System Configuration: There may be configuration settings in the SAP system that allow for the deletion of control documents without proper checks on related documents.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Document Status: Verify the status of both the control document and the invoicing document. Ensure that the control document is still valid and has not been deleted inadvertently.
  Restore Control Document: If the control document was deleted mistakenly, it may need to be restored. This could involve recreating the document or using backup procedures if available.
  Review Deletion Procedures: Review the procedures and authorizations related to document deletion in your SAP system. Ensure that only authorized personnel can delete critical documents.
  Adjust Configuration: If this issue occurs frequently, consider adjusting the system configuration to prevent the deletion of control documents that have associated invoicing documents.
  Consult SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes or patches that address this specific error message. SAP frequently updates its software to fix known issues.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ME23N (Display Purchase Order), MIRO (Invoice Verification), and others that may help in troubleshooting.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to invoice verification and document management to understand the dependencies between documents.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on the implications of deleting documents and the importance of maintaining document integrity within the system.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be necessary to engage with SAP support or a technical consultant who can provide deeper insights into the specific configuration and data integrity issues within your SAP environment.