How To Fix SIG628 - External signature: Signed document already exists; no update

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SIG - Digital Signature

• Message number: 628

• Message text: External signature: Signed document already exists; no update

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SIG628 - External signature: Signed document already exists; no update ?

  The SAP error message SIG628, which states "External signature: Signed document already exists; no update," typically occurs in the context of document management and digital signatures within SAP systems. This error indicates that an attempt was made to sign a document that has already been signed, and therefore, the system does not allow for a second signature on the same document.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Signing Attempt: The most common cause of this error is that the document in question has already been signed, and the system is preventing a second signature to maintain the integrity of the document.
  Incorrect Workflow: The workflow or process that is being followed may not be correctly set up to handle multiple signatures or updates to signed documents.
  System Configuration: There may be configuration settings in the SAP system that dictate how signed documents are handled, leading to this error if not set up correctly.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Document Status: Verify the status of the document to confirm whether it has already been signed. If it has, you may need to review the signing process or workflow.
  Review Workflow: Ensure that the workflow is designed to handle the signing process correctly. If multiple signatures are required, the workflow should be adjusted accordingly.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for guidance on handling signed documents and the specific configurations related to digital signatures.
  System Configuration: If you have access, check the configuration settings related to document signing in the SAP system. Ensure that they align with your business requirements.
  Contact Support: If the issue persists and you cannot resolve it, consider reaching out to SAP support or your internal IT team for further assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional context on handling signed documents.
  User Permissions: Ensure that the user attempting to sign the document has the necessary permissions to do so.
  Audit Trail: Review the audit trail or logs to understand the sequence of actions taken on the document, which may provide insights into why the error occurred.
  Training: Ensure that users are trained on the correct procedures for signing documents within the SAP system to avoid such errors in the future.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the SIG628 error and implement a solution to resolve it.