M8770 - Contract cannot be uniquely assigned - use input help

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: M8 - Invoice Verification/Valuation

• Message number: 770

• Message text: Contract cannot be uniquely assigned - use input help

What causes this issue?

The SRM central contract item entered is assigned to several SAP S/4HANA
contract items.

System Response

It is not possible to derive a unique assignment.

How to fix this error?

Either enter the SAP S/4HANA contract (outline agreement) as well, or
use the F4 help to select the contract item.

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 M8770 - Contract cannot be uniquely assigned - use input help ?

  The SAP error message M8770, "Contract cannot be uniquely assigned - use input help," typically occurs in the context of materials management or procurement processes when the system is unable to uniquely identify a contract based on the input provided. This can happen in various transactions, such as creating a purchase order or a purchase requisition, where a contract reference is required.
  Cause:
  
  Multiple Contracts: There are multiple contracts that match the criteria you have entered, and the system cannot determine which one to use.
  Incomplete Data: The data you have entered may be incomplete or ambiguous, leading to multiple potential matches.
  Contract Status: The contracts that match may not be active or may have been archived.
  Selection Criteria: The selection criteria used to find the contract may be too broad, resulting in multiple potential matches.
  
  Solution:
  
  Use Input Help: The error message suggests using the input help (F4) to select the contract. This will allow you to see all available contracts and choose the correct one.
  Refine Search Criteria: If you are entering data manually, try to provide more specific information (e.g., vendor, material, or contract type) to narrow down the search results.
  Check Contract Status: Ensure that the contracts you are trying to access are active and not expired or archived.
  Review Contract Data: Check the details of the contracts in the system to ensure they are correctly set up and that there are no discrepancies.
  Consult with Procurement Team: If you are unsure about which contract to select, consult with your procurement or purchasing team for guidance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: This error can occur in various transactions, such as ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME51N (Create Purchase Requisition), etc.
  Contract Types: Understand the different types of contracts in SAP (e.g., framework agreements, service contracts) and how they are set up.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes or documentation that may address specific issues related to contract assignment.
  User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to view and select contracts in the system.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the M8770 error and successfully assign the appropriate contract in your SAP system.