How To Fix FC363 - Changing the currency in a live system can lead to fatal errors.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FC - FI configuration error messages

• Message number: 363

• Message text: Changing the currency in a live system can lead to fatal errors.

Before you continue, it is important that you make note of the follow-on
note: This transaction can bring about severe losses if you ignore this
note.

What causes this issue?

You are about to change the additional local currencies for the company
code. If, however, transactional data exists in the system / target
system of the Customizing transport, this leads to inconsistencies in
the currencies.

System Response

Depending on your settings, this may cause a system standstill. For
example, follow-on processes reference existing data that does not
conform to the changed settings, and therefore cannot be posted!
Other effects are also possible (for example, unexplainable exchange
rate differences, no means of reconciling the data).

How to fix this error?

If changes are necessary, refer to SAP Note 39919.

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 FC363 - Changing the currency in a live system can lead to fatal errors. ?

  The SAP error message FC363, which states "Changing the currency in a live system can lead to fatal errors," typically occurs when there is an attempt to change the currency settings in a live SAP system. This is a critical error because changing the currency can have significant implications for financial reporting, data integrity, and system functionality.
  Cause:
  
  Currency Change Attempt: The error is triggered when a user tries to change the currency settings (e.g., company code currency, controlling area currency) in a system that is already live and operational.
  Data Integrity Risks: Changing the currency can lead to inconsistencies in financial data, as historical transactions are recorded in the original currency.
  System Configuration: The system is designed to prevent such changes in a live environment to protect the integrity of financial data.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Avoid Currency Changes in Live Systems: The best practice is to avoid changing currency settings in a live system. If a currency change is absolutely necessary, consider the following steps:
  
  Create a New Company Code: Instead of changing the currency of an existing company code, create a new company code with the desired currency. This allows you to maintain the integrity of historical data.
  Data Migration: If you create a new company code, you may need to migrate data from the old company code to the new one. This can involve complex data migration processes.
  Consult SAP Documentation: Review SAP documentation and guidelines regarding currency changes to understand the implications and necessary steps.
  Engage SAP Support: If you believe a currency change is necessary, consult with SAP support or your SAP implementation partner for guidance on the best approach.
  
  
  
  Testing in a Sandbox Environment: If you need to test currency changes, do so in a non-production (sandbox or development) environment to understand the implications without affecting live data.
  
  
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on the implications of changing currency settings and the importance of maintaining data integrity.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional guidance or updates related to currency changes.
  System Configuration: Review the configuration settings in the SAP system related to currencies, including company code settings, controlling area settings, and any related financial settings.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP's official documentation for financial accounting and controlling to understand the implications of currency settings.
  
  In summary, the FC363 error serves as a protective measure to prevent potentially catastrophic changes to financial data in a live SAP system. It is crucial to approach any currency changes with caution and to follow best practices to ensure data integrity.