How To Fix FH184 - Change "External account management" in spite of postings

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FH - General ledger module messages

• Message number: 184

• Message text: Change "External account management" in spite of postings

What causes this issue?

FI ALE is activated for accounting documents (distibuted general
ledger).
Postings have already been made in the account.
You want to change the <DS:DE.WMETH>Account managed in external system
</> indicator. This could result in the transaction figures not being
completely updated in the ALE target system.
You can find more information in OSS note 131784.

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?

Check your entries.
INCLUDE 'CUSTOMIZED_MESSAGE_INFO' OBJECT DOKU ID TX

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message FH184 - Change "External account management" in spite of postings ?

  The SAP error message FH184, which states "Change 'External account management' in spite of postings," typically occurs when you attempt to change the settings for an account that has already been used in transactions. This error is related to the configuration of external account management in the Financial Accounting (FI) module of SAP.
  Cause:
  The error arises when you try to modify the external account management settings for a G/L account that has already been posted to. In SAP, certain settings, such as whether an account is managed externally or internally, cannot be changed once there are existing postings against that account. This is to maintain data integrity and ensure that financial reporting remains accurate.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you have a few options:
  
  
  Check for Postings: First, verify if there are any postings made to the G/L account in question. You can do this by running a report or checking the account balance in the general ledger.
  
  
  Reverse Postings: If there are postings that you can reverse, consider doing so. Once the account is free of postings, you can change the external account management settings.
  
  
  Create a New Account: If reversing postings is not feasible, consider creating a new G/L account with the desired external account management settings. You can then transfer any necessary balances or transactions to the new account.
  
  
  Consult with Your SAP Administrator: If you are unsure about the implications of changing account settings or if you need to maintain historical data, consult with your SAP administrator or a financial consultant who is familiar with your organization's accounting practices.
  
  
  Documentation and Change Management: Ensure that any changes made are documented and that proper change management procedures are followed to avoid issues in the future.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may use transaction codes like FS00 (G/L Account Master Record) to view and edit G/L account settings.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific guidance or updates related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its documentation and may provide additional insights or solutions.
  Training and Support: If you frequently encounter issues with account management settings, consider additional training for users involved in financial postings and account management.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the FH184 error and manage your G/L accounts effectively.