How To Fix FE718 - Sub-tree contains contra item -> deletion not possible

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FE - CO-PA module pool messages

• Message number: 718

• Message text: Sub-tree contains contra item -> deletion not possible

What causes this issue?

The sub-tree on which the cursor is, is to be deleted but contains a
contra item. Contra items cannot be deleted.

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?

First delete the contra item with "Edit -> Delete contra item".
Afterwards you can delete the sub-tree which contains the contra item.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message FE718 - Sub-tree contains contra item -> deletion not possible ?

  The SAP error message FE718 ("Sub-tree contains contra item -> deletion not possible") typically occurs in the context of financial accounting, particularly when dealing with the deletion of line items in a financial document or when trying to delete a cost center or internal order that has contra items associated with it.
  Cause:
  The error indicates that the item you are trying to delete is part of a sub-tree that contains contra items. Contra items are typically used in financial accounting to offset other items, and they are essential for maintaining the integrity of financial data. Deleting an item that has contra items can lead to inconsistencies in the financial records, which is why SAP prevents this action.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Identify Contra Items: Check the financial document or the item you are trying to delete to identify any contra items associated with it. You can do this by reviewing the line items in the document or using transaction codes like FB03 (Display Document) to see the details.
  
  
  Remove Contra Items: If you need to delete the item, you must first remove or adjust the contra items. This may involve reversing or deleting the contra entries that are linked to the item you want to delete.
  
  
  Check Dependencies: Ensure that there are no other dependencies or linked items that might prevent deletion. This may include checking for any open transactions or postings that reference the item.
  
  
  Consult with Finance Team: If you are unsure about the implications of deleting contra items, consult with your finance team or a SAP FI consultant to ensure that you are not compromising the integrity of your financial data.
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes: Utilize relevant transaction codes to manage and review financial documents, such as:
  
  FB03: Display Document
  FB02: Change Document
  FBL1N: Vendor Line Item Display
  FBL3N: G/L Account Line Item Display
  
  
  
  Check for Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to perform deletions in the system. Sometimes, restrictions may be in place that prevent certain actions.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific guidance or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common issues.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to financial accounting and document management for best practices on handling contra items and deletions.
  Testing in Development: If possible, test the deletion process in a development or test environment before applying changes in the production environment to avoid unintended consequences.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the FE718 error and proceed with your financial operations in SAP.