How To Fix FH551 - G/L account &1: Reference account missing

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FH - General ledger module messages

• Message number: 551

• Message text: G/L account &1: Reference account missing

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message FH551 - G/L account &1: Reference account missing ?

  The SAP error message FH551 indicates that a General Ledger (G/L) account is missing a reference account. This typically occurs in the context of financial transactions where a reference account is required for proper posting or reporting.
  Cause:
  The error can arise due to several reasons:
  
  Missing Reference Account: The G/L account specified in the transaction does not have a reference account defined in its configuration.
  Configuration Issues: The account may not be properly set up in the system, or the reference account may have been deleted or not maintained.
  Transaction Type: Certain transaction types may require a reference account to be specified, and if it is not, this error will occur.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the FH551 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check G/L Account Configuration:
  
  Go to the transaction code FS00 (G/L Account Master Data) and enter the G/L account number that is causing the error.
  Check the settings under the "Control Data" tab to see if a reference account is specified. If it is missing, you may need to add it.
  
  
  
  Maintain Reference Account:
  
  If the reference account is not maintained, you can add it by editing the G/L account settings. Ensure that the reference account is valid and exists in the system.
  
  
  
  Review Transaction Type:
  
  Ensure that the transaction type you are using is appropriate for the G/L account. Some accounts may have specific requirements for reference accounts based on the type of transaction.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for specific guidelines related to the G/L account in question.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making the necessary changes, try to execute the transaction again to see if the error persists.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  FS00: G/L Account Master Data
  OB52: Open and Close Posting Periods
  OBD2: Maintain G/L Account Determination
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance.
  User Roles: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to make changes to G/L account settings.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to engage with your SAP support team or consult with an SAP expert for further assistance.