How To Fix BQ200 - Overall budget is negative

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BQ - Messages for Budgeting and Planning

• Message number: 200

• Message text: Overall budget is negative

What causes this issue?

The overall budget in one or more funds centers/commitment items is
negative.

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?

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BQ200 - Overall budget is negative ?

  The SAP error message BQ200, which states "Overall budget is negative," typically occurs in the context of budget management within SAP, particularly in modules like SAP Controlling (CO) or SAP Project System (PS). This error indicates that the total budget available for a particular cost center, internal order, or project has been exceeded, resulting in a negative overall budget.
  Cause:
  
  Budget Exceedance: The most common cause is that the actual costs or commitments entered into the system have surpassed the allocated budget for that period or project.
  Incorrect Budgeting: There may be an error in the budget allocation, such as not properly updating the budget after changes in project scope or costs.
  Posting Errors: Incorrect postings or entries that do not align with the budget can lead to this error.
  Negative Budget Settings: In some configurations, the system may not allow negative budgets, leading to this error when costs exceed the budget.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Budget Allocations: Check the budget allocations for the relevant cost center, internal order, or project. Ensure that the budget is sufficient to cover the actual and planned costs.
  Adjust the Budget: If the budget is indeed insufficient, consider increasing the budget allocation to accommodate the actual costs incurred.
  Analyze Actual Costs: Review the actual costs and commitments to identify any discrepancies or unexpected expenses that may have led to the budget exceedance.
  Correct Postings: If there are incorrect postings, reverse or correct them to align with the budget.
  Consult with Finance Team: If necessary, consult with your finance or controlling team to understand the budget management policies and make appropriate adjustments.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You can use transaction codes like S_ALR_87013558 (Budget/Actual/Commitment) or KSB1 (Cost Centers: Actual Line Items) to analyze budget and cost data.
  Budgeting Process: Familiarize yourself with the budgeting process in your organization, including how budgets are created, approved, and monitored.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to budget management that may address known issues or provide additional guidance.
  Training and Documentation: Ensure that users involved in budget management are adequately trained and have access to documentation on how to manage budgets effectively in SAP.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the BQ200 error and ensure that your budget management processes are functioning correctly.