How To Fix M8_2312 - Prepayment is not possible in combination with retention

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: M8_2 - Logistics Invoice Verification

• Message number: 312

• Message text: Prepayment is not possible in combination with retention

What causes this issue?

You want to settle the invoice through prepayment. One or more of the
invoice items contain a retention.

System Response

The system cannot save the invoice with the creation of a prepayment
document.

How to fix this error?

Delete either the prepayment status in the invoice header or all
retention amounts at item level. You can then save the document.

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 M8_2312 - Prepayment is not possible in combination with retention ?

  The SAP error message M8_2312, which states "Prepayment is not possible in combination with retention," typically occurs in the context of procurement and invoicing processes within SAP. This error indicates that there is a conflict between the prepayment functionality and the retention functionality in the system.
  Cause:
  
  Retention and Prepayment Conflict: The error arises when a purchase order or contract is set up to allow for retention (withholding a portion of payment until certain conditions are met) while also attempting to process a prepayment. SAP does not allow these two functionalities to be used together on the same transaction.
  Configuration Settings: The configuration settings in the SAP system may not allow for prepayments when retention is involved. This is often a result of how the purchasing or invoicing processes are set up in the system.
  Document Type Restrictions: Certain document types may have restrictions that prevent the combination of prepayments and retention.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Purchase Order/Contract: Check the purchase order or contract to see if it is set up for retention. If retention is not necessary, consider removing it from the document.
  Adjust Payment Terms: If prepayment is required, you may need to adjust the payment terms to exclude retention. This may involve changing the terms in the vendor master data or the specific purchase order.
  Consult Configuration: Work with your SAP configuration team to review the settings related to prepayments and retention. They may need to adjust the configuration to allow for one of the functionalities to be used without conflict.
  Use Separate Transactions: If both prepayment and retention are necessary, consider processing them in separate transactions. For example, you could process the prepayment first and then handle the retention in a subsequent transaction.
  Documentation and Training: Ensure that users are aware of the limitations and proper procedures when dealing with prepayments and retention. Providing documentation or training can help prevent this error in the future.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific guidance or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its documentation and may have specific recommendations for your version of the software.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME22N (Change Purchase Order), and MIRO (Invoice Verification) to navigate the procurement process effectively.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that users have the appropriate roles and authorizations to make changes to purchase orders and payment terms, as this can also impact the ability to resolve the error.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a consultant who specializes in SAP procurement processes.