How To Fix FINS_REV_REC038 - &1 should not hold a RA key, since higher &2 holds a RA key already

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FINS_REV_REC - Event Based revenue recognition

• Message number: 038

• Message text: &1 should not hold a RA key, since higher &2 holds a RA key already

What causes this issue?

Event based revenue recognition is applied to objects which are related
by a hierarchical structure, like the elements of a project. In this
case it is not supported that two elements of that structure have both a
results analysis key assigned, if one element of these two element is
below the other element.

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?

Remove the results key from the master data of one of these two
elements.

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 FINS_REV_REC038 - &1 should not hold a RA key, since higher &2 holds a RA key already ?

  The SAP error message FINS_REV_REC038 indicates a conflict in the assignment of Revenue Accounting (RA) keys in the system. Specifically, it suggests that a lower-level item (identified by &1) should not have a RA key assigned because a higher-level item (identified by &2) already has a RA key assigned. This is typically encountered in the context of revenue recognition processes, particularly when dealing with contracts, billing documents, or revenue arrangements.
  Cause:
  
  Hierarchy Conflict: The error arises due to a hierarchical relationship where a higher-level item (e.g., a contract or a parent item) already has a RA key assigned, and the system does not allow a lower-level item (e.g., a sub-item or child item) to have its own RA key.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the Revenue Accounting module that enforce this rule, preventing multiple RA keys from being assigned within the same hierarchy.
  Data Entry Errors: Incorrect data entry or assignment of RA keys during the creation or modification of items can lead to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Hierarchical Structure: Check the hierarchical structure of the items involved. Ensure that the lower-level item does not need a separate RA key if the higher-level item already has one.
  Adjust RA Key Assignment: If the lower-level item does not require a RA key, remove the RA key assignment from it. If it does require a separate RA key, consider restructuring the hierarchy or re-evaluating the need for the higher-level item’s RA key.
  Consult Configuration: Review the configuration settings in the Revenue Accounting module to ensure they align with your business requirements. You may need to consult with your SAP configuration team or a functional consultant.
  Data Correction: If the error is due to incorrect data entry, correct the entries in the relevant documents or items to ensure compliance with the RA key assignment rules.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance on handling RA key assignments.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to Revenue Accounting and the specific configuration settings for RA keys.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes (e.g., FBL1N, FBL3N, or others related to revenue recognition) to analyze the documents and items involved.
  Testing: After making changes, conduct thorough testing to ensure that the adjustments resolve the error and do not introduce new issues.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to engage with SAP support or a consultant who specializes in Revenue Accounting for further assistance.