How To Fix TB124 - CAUTION: Change in the standard currency can invalidate application data

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: TB - SM31 table maintenance messages

• Message number: 124

• Message text: CAUTION: Change in the standard currency can invalidate application data

What causes this issue?

You changed the standard currency of the client.

System Response

The standard currency of the client is used as the conmpany currency in
the following applications: asset accounting, controlling, financial
accounting, material ledger, special purpose ledger.
Define the standard/company currency before starting production. Choose
the currency in which the head office of your company or concern
creates the closing.
Caution: If the standard or company currency is changed for example
from USD to DEM, amounts stored on the database are interpreted as DEM
amounts and not as USD amounts. This could have a catastropic effect on
the values in the company currency.
Only change the standrd/company currency of the client if you are sure
that this currency was not yet used productively in a module. You
should not change the currency in a test client either, as otherwise
this could result in incorrect amounts for the company currency or in
error messages in a number of transactions.

How to fix this error?

If necessary, cancel the change.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message TB124 - CAUTION: Change in the standard currency can invalidate application data ?

  The SAP error message TB124, which states "CAUTION: Change in the standard currency can invalidate application data," typically arises when there is an attempt to change the standard currency of a company code or controlling area in SAP. This change can have significant implications for financial reporting and data integrity, as it may affect existing transactions, balances, and reports.
  Cause:
  
  Currency Change Attempt: The primary cause of this error is the attempt to change the standard currency in the configuration settings of a company code or controlling area.
  Existing Transactions: If there are existing transactions recorded in the system, changing the standard currency can lead to inconsistencies and inaccuracies in financial data.
  Data Integrity Risks: The system is designed to prevent changes that could compromise the integrity of financial data, hence the warning.
  
  Solution:
  
  Evaluate Necessity: Before proceeding with any changes, evaluate whether changing the standard currency is absolutely necessary. Consider the implications on reporting and data integrity.
  Backup Data: Always ensure that you have a complete backup of your data before making any changes to the currency settings.
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation and guidelines regarding currency changes. SAP provides specific instructions and considerations for changing currencies.
  Use Transaction OBA7: If you decide to proceed, you can use transaction code OBA7 to change the standard currency. However, ensure that you have thoroughly assessed the impact.
  Test in Development Environment: If possible, test the currency change in a development or sandbox environment before applying it to the production system.
  Consult with SAP Support: If you are unsure about the implications or the process, it may be beneficial to consult with SAP support or a qualified SAP consultant.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Impact on Financial Reports: Changing the standard currency can affect all financial reports, including balance sheets and profit and loss statements.
  Currency Translation: Understand how currency translation works in SAP and how it may affect historical data.
  Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that any changes comply with local regulations and accounting standards.
  User Training: If the change is implemented, ensure that users are trained on how to handle transactions in the new currency.
  
  Conclusion:
  Changing the standard currency in SAP is a significant action that requires careful consideration and planning. It is crucial to understand the potential risks and to follow best practices to ensure data integrity and compliance. Always consult with experienced SAP professionals when making such changes.