How To Fix SO681 - Recipient <&> cannot be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SO - SAPoffice: message texts

• Message number: 681

• Message text: Recipient <&> cannot be deleted

What causes this issue?

You tried to delete a fixed default recipient.
A recipient is set as a fixed default when, for example, a document is
replied to using the reply function. Default recipients set in this way
cannot be deleted.

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?

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SO681 - Recipient <&> cannot be deleted ?

  The SAP error message SO681 indicates that a recipient cannot be deleted, typically in the context of managing users or distribution lists in the SAP system. This error can occur for various reasons, and understanding the cause is essential for finding a solution.
  Causes of Error SO681
  
  
  Recipient in Use: The recipient (user or distribution list) you are trying to delete may still be in use by other processes or objects within the SAP system. For example, it could be part of a workflow, a notification, or a distribution list that is currently active.
  
  
  Authorization Issues: The user attempting to delete the recipient may not have the necessary authorizations to perform this action. This can prevent the deletion even if the recipient is not actively in use.
  
  
  System Configuration: Certain system configurations or settings may prevent the deletion of specific recipients, especially if they are part of a standard setup or have been defined in a way that restricts modifications.
  
  
  Technical Issues: There may be underlying technical issues, such as database locks or inconsistencies, that prevent the deletion of the recipient.
  
  
  Solutions to Error SO681
  
  
  Check Usage: Before attempting to delete the recipient, check if it is being used in any active processes. You can do this by reviewing workflows, notifications, or any other objects that may reference the recipient.
  
  
  Review Authorizations: Ensure that the user attempting to delete the recipient has the necessary authorizations. You may need to consult with your SAP security team to verify and adjust the user's permissions.
  
  
  Deactivate or Remove Dependencies: If the recipient is part of a distribution list or workflow, consider deactivating or removing those dependencies before attempting to delete the recipient.
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes: Utilize relevant transaction codes to manage recipients. For example, you can use transaction code SO10 (for text management) or SO01 (for SAP office mail) to check and manage recipients.
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error. There may be patches or updates that resolve known issues related to recipient management.
  
  
  Technical Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to your SAP Basis or technical support team. They can investigate any underlying technical issues, such as database locks or inconsistencies.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for more details on managing recipients and understanding error messages.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they found effective.
  Training and Resources: Consider training sessions or resources on SAP user management and authorization concepts to better understand how to manage recipients effectively.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the SO681 error and implement a suitable solution.