How To Fix RE128 - Reference document &1 posted in controlling area &2

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RE - Earmarked funds

• Message number: 128

• Message text: Reference document &1 posted in controlling area &2

What causes this issue?

You want to reference a reservation document which was posted in a
different controlling area. This is not possible; the two documents
must be in the same controlling area.
The error may be due to the fact that the document you are currently
working on is assigned to a controlling area, but the reservation
document is not (or vice versa).

System Response

How to fix this error?

Enter a reference document which is in the same controlling area as the
document you are currently working on.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message RE128 - Reference document &1 posted in controlling area &2 ?

  The SAP error message RE128, which states "Reference document &1 posted in controlling area &2," typically occurs in the context of financial transactions within the SAP system, particularly when dealing with controlling (CO) and financial accounting (FI) modules. This error indicates that there is an issue with the reference document that is being used in a transaction, specifically related to the controlling area.
  Cause:
  
  Controlling Area Mismatch: The reference document (e.g., an invoice, journal entry, etc.) is associated with a different controlling area than the one you are currently working in. Each controlling area in SAP is linked to specific company codes and has its own set of cost centers, internal orders, etc.
  Document Type Restrictions: Certain document types may have restrictions on how they can be used across different controlling areas.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration issues in the controlling area settings or in the document types that are causing the error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Controlling Area: Verify that the controlling area of the reference document matches the controlling area you are currently working in. You can do this by checking the document in the relevant transaction (e.g., FB03 for viewing financial documents).
  Use Correct Reference Document: If the reference document belongs to a different controlling area, you will need to use a reference document that is valid for the controlling area you are working in.
  Review Configuration: Check the configuration settings for the controlling area and document types in the SAP system. Ensure that they are set up correctly and that there are no restrictions that would prevent the use of the reference document.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on handling this error, as it may vary based on the version of SAP you are using.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as FB03 (Display Document), KSB1 (Cost Centers: Actual Line Items), and others that may help in analyzing the issue.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP Notes can provide additional insights or solutions.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to access the documents and controlling areas involved in the transaction.
  Testing in a Sandbox: If possible, replicate the issue in a test or sandbox environment to better understand the cause and test potential solutions without affecting production data.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in the controlling module.