How To Fix IHC394 - Payment Order cannot be destroyed, retention rule not met

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: IHC - IHC Messages

• Message number: 394

• Message text: Payment Order cannot be destroyed, retention rule not met

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message IHC394 - Payment Order cannot be destroyed, retention rule not met ?

  The SAP error message IHC394, which states "Payment Order cannot be destroyed, retention rule not met," typically occurs in the context of the SAP Intercompany Holding Company (IHC) module. This error indicates that there are retention rules in place that prevent the deletion or destruction of a payment order.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of this error is that the payment order you are trying to delete or destroy is subject to retention rules defined in the system. These rules are often set up to ensure compliance with legal or regulatory requirements, which mandate that certain financial documents must be retained for a specified period.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Retention Rules: Review the retention rules configured in your SAP system. You can do this by navigating to the relevant configuration settings in the SAP Customizing Implementation Guide (IMG). Look for the retention rules related to payment orders.
  
  
  Determine Retention Period: Identify the retention period that applies to the payment order in question. This information will help you understand when the payment order can be deleted.
  
  
  Wait for Retention Period: If the payment order is still within the retention period, you will need to wait until the retention period expires before you can delete or destroy the payment order.
  
  
  Consult with Compliance/Legal Team: If you believe that the retention rules are too strict or need to be adjusted, consult with your compliance or legal team to determine if any changes are necessary.
  
  
  Use Alternative Methods: If you need to manage the payment order without deleting it, consider using alternative methods such as marking it as inactive or archiving it, if your system allows for such actions.
  
  
  SAP Notes and Support: If you continue to experience issues or if the retention rules seem incorrect, check for any relevant SAP Notes or patches that may address this issue. You can also reach out to SAP support for further assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Retention Management: Understanding how retention management works in SAP can help you better navigate issues related to document retention.
  Legal Compliance: Familiarize yourself with the legal requirements for document retention in your jurisdiction, as this may influence how retention rules are set up in your SAP system.
  SAP Documentation: Refer to SAP's official documentation for detailed information on configuring and managing retention rules within the IHC module.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the IHC394 error and manage your payment orders effectively.