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

MEPO088 - Overview

• 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.

MEPO088 - Details

• 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