How To Fix AO485 - Reference &1 cannot be used at the moment --> try again later

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AO - Appropriation requests - Master data / Customizing

• Message number: 485

• Message text: Reference &1 cannot be used at the moment --> try again later

What causes this issue?

You want to use appropriation request &V1& as a reference for creating a
new appropriation request.
It is not possible to copy the program position since it is currently
being processed.

System Response

Creation of the appropriation request with reference is terminated.
The creation transaction screen is displayed again.
The affected program position is specified in a separate message.

How to fix this error?

Try creating the appropriation request using &V1& as a reference when
the program position is no longer being processed.
Check whether it is possible to create the appropriation request without
a reference or using a different reference.

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 AO485 - Reference &1 cannot be used at the moment --> try again later ?

  The SAP error message AO485, which states "Reference &1 cannot be used at the moment --> try again later," typically indicates that the system is unable to access a specific reference object (like a master data record, document, or other entity) at the time of the request. This can occur for several reasons, including:
  Causes:
  
  Locking Issues: The reference object may be locked by another user or process. This is common in environments where multiple users are accessing the same data simultaneously.
  System Performance: The system may be experiencing performance issues, causing delays in accessing the reference object.
  Data Consistency: There may be ongoing background jobs or processes that are updating or changing the reference object, making it temporarily unavailable.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the reference object, although this typically results in a different error message.
  Technical Issues: There could be a technical issue with the database or application server that is preventing access to the reference object.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Retry the Operation: Since the message suggests trying again later, simply waiting a few moments and then retrying the operation may resolve the issue.
  Check for Locks: Use transaction codes like SM12 to check for locks on the reference object. If you find a lock that is no longer needed, you may be able to delete it (with caution and proper authorization).
  Monitor Background Jobs: Use transaction SM37 to check if there are any background jobs that might be affecting the reference object. If a job is running, you may need to wait for it to complete.
  System Performance: If the system is slow, check with your Basis team to see if there are any performance issues or if the system needs to be optimized.
  Contact Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting the SAP Notes for any known issues related to this error message.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SM12 (to check locks), SM37 (to monitor background jobs), and ST22 (to check for dumps).
  SAP Notes: Search the SAP Support Portal for any specific notes related to error AO485, as there may be patches or updates that address this issue.
  User Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to access the reference object in question.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and potentially resolve the AO485 error in SAP.