How To Fix EA036 - Function module EDI_IDOC_R3I_OUTGOING can only process references

EA036 - Overview

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EA - IDoc Basis Messages

• Message number: 036

• Message text: Function module EDI_IDOC_R3I_OUTGOING can only process references

What causes this issue?

No table with references was transferred to function module
EDI_IDOC_R3I_OUTGOING (inbound parameter REFERENCE_FLAG is not set).
However, it can only convert references into IDoc data.

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?

Please use the function module EDI_IDOC_R3I_OUTGOING to convert IDoc
data into references.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EA036 - Function module EDI_IDOC_R3I_OUTGOING can only process references ?

  The SAP error message EA036, which states that "Function module EDI_IDOC_R3I_OUTGOING can only process references," typically occurs in the context of IDoc processing, particularly when dealing with EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) transactions. This error indicates that the function module is expecting a reference to an object (like a document or a record) rather than a direct value or an incorrect type of input.
  
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Input Type: The function module EDI_IDOC_R3I_OUTGOING is designed to handle references to data objects. If the input provided to this function module is not a reference (for example, if it is a direct value or an incorrect structure), the error will occur.
  
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues with the configuration of the IDoc type or the message type being used, leading to the function module not receiving the expected data structure.
  Data Integrity Issues: The data being processed may not be complete or may not meet the expected