How To Fix FI_E149 - Invoice &1 already exists with reference number &2

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FI_E - Message Class for FM English Developers

• Message number: 149

• Message text: Invoice &1 already exists with reference number &2

What causes this issue?

You have the Prompt Payment Act function active for your company code.
Invoice &1 already exists for the entered reference number.

System Response

Customer BAdI named PPA_CUST_BADI provided to set response when vendor
document reference number (XBLNR) already exists in table BKPF. Without
an active implementation, the warning message "Invoice &1 already
exists with reference number &2" appears.

How to fix this error?

Corrected invoices received from the vendor would reference the
original vendor reference number. Clarify whether this is a returned
invoice and change existing invoice &1 as appropriate.

Procedure for System Administrators

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 FI_E149 - Invoice &1 already exists with reference number &2 ?

  The SAP error message FI_E149, which states "Invoice &1 already exists with reference number &2," typically occurs in the Financial Accounting (FI) module when you attempt to post an invoice that has already been recorded in the system with the same reference number. This is a safeguard to prevent duplicate entries in the financial records.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Invoice Entry: The most common cause is that the invoice you are trying to post has already been entered into the system with the same reference number.
  Incorrect Reference Number: You may have mistakenly entered the same reference number for different invoices.
  System Configuration: In some cases, the system may be configured to prevent duplicate entries based on specific criteria, including reference numbers.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Invoices: Before posting a new invoice, check the existing invoices in the system to see if the invoice with the same reference number already exists. You can do this by using transaction codes like FB03 (Display Document) or FBL1N (Vendor Line Item Display).
  
  
  Use a Unique Reference Number: If you find that the invoice already exists, you will need to use a different reference number for the new invoice. Ensure that the reference number is unique to avoid this error in the future.
  
  
  Correct the Entry: If you believe the invoice should not exist (for example, if it was posted in error), you may need to reverse or delete the existing invoice. This can be done using transaction codes like FB08 (Reverse Document) or FBRA (Reset Document).
  
  
  Consult with Your Team: If you are unsure about the existing invoice or how to proceed, consult with your finance team or SAP support team for guidance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as FB03, FB08, FBL1N, and FBRA for managing invoices and line items.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message, as there may be known issues or fixes provided by SAP.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to view, reverse, or delete invoices in the system.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the FI_E149 error and prevent it from occurring in the future.