How To Fix MEPO088 - Indicator for returns item can no longer be changed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MEPO - New Purchase Order Dialog

• Message number: 088

• Message text: Indicator for returns item can no longer be changed

What causes this issue?

The returns item indicator has been changed manually or rederived
through input in another field (e.g. contract, purchase
requisition...).
However, a different value for this field is not allowed because
follow-on documents (possibly including cancelled follow-on documents)
exist.

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?

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 MEPO088 - Indicator for returns item can no longer be changed ?

  The SAP error message MEPO088, which states "Indicator for returns item can no longer be changed," typically occurs in the context of purchase orders or contracts when you attempt to modify the returns indicator for an item that has already been processed or is in a status that does not allow changes.
  Cause:
  
  Document Status: The purchase order or contract may have already been processed (e.g., goods receipt, invoice receipt) which locks certain fields from being changed.
  Returns Indicator: The returns indicator is set in a way that it cannot be modified after certain actions have been taken on the document.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary permissions to make changes to the document.
  System Configuration: Certain configurations in the SAP system may restrict changes to specific fields based on business rules.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Document Status: Verify the status of the purchase order or contract. If it has been fully processed, you may need to create a new document or use a different process to handle returns.
  Review Changes: If you need to change the returns indicator, ensure that no goods receipts or invoices have been posted against the item. If they have, you may need to reverse those transactions first.
  User Permissions: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to the document. If not, contact your SAP administrator to request the required permissions.
  Consult Configuration: If the issue persists, consult with your SAP configuration team to understand if there are specific settings that prevent changes to the returns indicator and if they can be adjusted.
  Use Alternative Processes: If changing the returns indicator is not possible, consider using alternative processes for handling returns, such as creating a return order or using a different transaction code.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ME22N (Change Purchase Order), ME23N (Display Purchase Order), and ME21N (Create Purchase Order) for managing purchase orders.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help files related to purchase order management and returns processing for additional guidance.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to reach out to SAP support or your internal IT team for further assistance.