How To Fix FI280 - Converting reference doc numbers from 35 to 16 digits is not possible

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FI - TR-FM Funds Management

• Message number: 280

• Message text: Converting reference doc numbers from 35 to 16 digits is not possible

What causes this issue?

It is not possible for function module REF_DOC_NO_CONVERSION_RANGE to
transfer reference document numbers with more than 16 digits to fields
that have only 16 digits.
Longer reference numbers can only be used in systems with enhanced
domain XBLNR1 which is only intended for Public Sector client Federal
Government.

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 whether the request of the system called with a reference number
of more than 16 digits is correct.
If it is correct, you must also convert the system called to the
extended reference document number.
If it is not correct, you must change the request accordingly.

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 FI280 - Converting reference doc numbers from 35 to 16 digits is not possible ?

  The SAP error message FI280, which states "Converting reference doc numbers from 35 to 16 digits is not possible," typically occurs when there is an attempt to convert or process document numbers that exceed the maximum length allowed in the system. This is particularly relevant in the context of financial documents where the system has a limitation on the number of digits for document numbers.
  Cause:
  
  Document Number Length: The error arises when the system encounters a document number that is longer than the allowed 16 digits. In some configurations or legacy systems, document numbers may have been extended to 35 digits, which is not compatible with certain SAP functionalities or modules.
  Data Migration Issues: If data has been migrated from an older system or a different database where longer document numbers were used, this can lead to conflicts when trying to process or reference these documents in SAP.
  Configuration Settings: The system may be configured to expect document numbers in a specific format or length, and any deviation from this can trigger the error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Document Numbers: Review the document numbers being processed to identify any that exceed the 16-digit limit. You may need to truncate or modify these numbers to fit within the allowed range.
  Data Cleanup: If the issue is due to data migration, consider cleaning up the data to ensure that all document numbers conform to the 16-digit limit. This may involve creating a mapping strategy to convert longer document numbers into a compatible format.
  Configuration Review: Consult with your SAP Basis or configuration team to review the settings related to document number lengths. Ensure that the system is configured correctly to handle the expected document number formats.
  Custom Development: If necessary, consider developing a custom solution or enhancement that can handle the conversion of document numbers appropriately, ensuring that the integrity of the data is maintained.
  SAP Notes and Support: Check for any relevant SAP Notes or patches that may address this issue. SAP Support may also provide guidance on how to handle this error based on your specific system configuration.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to SAP's official documentation for details on document number configurations and limitations.
  Transaction Codes: Use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) or SE16 (Data Browser) to investigate the underlying tables and data related to document numbers.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  By addressing the root cause of the error and implementing the appropriate solutions, you should be able to resolve the FI280 error and ensure smooth processing of financial documents in SAP.