How To Fix PFM_12CA020 - You cannot enter both a special g/l ind. and alt.g/l account

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PFM_12CA - Messages for Cross Application

• Message number: 020

• Message text: You cannot enter both a special g/l ind. and alt.g/l account

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PFM_12CA020 - You cannot enter both a special g/l ind. and alt.g/l account ?

  The SAP error message PFM_12CA020 indicates that there is a conflict in the data entry for a financial transaction. Specifically, it states that you cannot enter both a special G/L indicator and an alternative G/L account at the same time. This error typically arises in the context of financial postings where specific account types are being used.
  Cause:
  
  Special G/L Indicator: This is used to identify transactions that are not standard postings, such as down payments, guarantees, or other special transactions.
  Alternative G/L Account: This is used to specify an alternative account for posting, which is often used for reporting or specific accounting purposes.
  Conflict: The error occurs because the system does not allow both a special G/L indicator and an alternative G/L account to be specified simultaneously. This is due to the way SAP handles these types of accounts, as they serve different purposes.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you need to ensure that you are only using one of the two options in your transaction:
  
  Remove the Special G/L Indicator: If you intend to use an alternative G/L account, make sure to clear the special G/L indicator field.
  Remove the Alternative G/L Account: If you need to use a special G/L indicator, then you should not specify an alternative G/L account.
  Review Transaction Requirements: Check the requirements of the transaction you are trying to post. Determine whether a special G/L indicator or an alternative G/L account is necessary for your specific case.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: This error can occur in various transaction codes related to financial postings, such as FB50 (General Ledger Account Document Entry), F-02 (General Posting), etc.
  Configuration Settings: Review the configuration settings in the Financial Accounting (FI) module to ensure that the special G/L indicators and alternative G/L accounts are set up correctly.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for more detailed information on special G/L indicators and alternative G/L accounts, as well as best practices for financial postings.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and proceed with your financial transaction in SAP.