How To Fix EI656 - Select also the header information for the items

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EI - Foreign Trade: Gen. Output

• Message number: 656

• Message text: Select also the header information for the items

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EI656 - Select also the header information for the items ?

  The SAP error message EI656, which states "Select also the header information for the items," typically occurs in the context of document processing, such as when you are trying to display or process line items in a report or transaction without including the necessary header information.
  Cause:
  This error usually arises when the system expects both header and item details to be selected or processed together, but only item details have been provided. The header information is crucial as it contains overarching details about the document, such as document type, date, and other relevant metadata that applies to all line items.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you should ensure that you include the header information along with the item details in your selection criteria or processing logic. Here are some steps you can take:
  
  
  Check Selection Criteria: When running a report or transaction, make sure that you have selected the appropriate header fields in addition to the item fields. This may involve adjusting your selection screen or parameters.
  
  
  Review Document Structure: Understand the structure of the document you are working with. For example, if you are dealing with purchase orders, invoices, or sales orders, ensure that you are including the relevant header fields that correspond to the items.
  
  
  Use the Correct Transaction Code: Ensure that you are using the correct transaction code that allows for both header and item selection. Some transactions may have specific options for including header data.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about which header fields are required, consult the SAP documentation or help resources related to the specific transaction or report you are using.
  
  
  Check User Authorizations: In some cases, user authorizations may restrict access to certain header information. Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to view and select header data.
  
  
  Contact Support: If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that deal with document processing, such as ME23N (Display Purchase Order), VF03 (Display Billing Document), etc.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they found effective.
  
  By ensuring that both header and item information are included in your processing, you should be able to resolve the EI656 error effectively.