How To Fix UCF8028 - Reference document &1 cannot be reversed in an earlier period

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: UCF8 - Messages for Manual Journal Entry

• Message number: 028

• Message text: Reference document &1 cannot be reversed in an earlier period

What causes this issue?

Reference document &V1& was posted in period &V2& and is now to be
reversed in period &V3&. This is not possible because the posting
period of the reversal document would precede the posting period of the
reversed document.

System Response

The reference document cannot be processed.

How to fix this error?

Change the current posting period accordingly.

Procedure for System Administrators

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message UCF8028 - Reference document &1 cannot be reversed in an earlier period ?

  The SAP error message UCF8028, which states "Reference document &1 cannot be reversed in an earlier period," typically occurs in the context of financial transactions, particularly when attempting to reverse a document that is dated in a prior fiscal period. This error is a safeguard to ensure that financial integrity is maintained and that no changes are made to closed periods.
  Cause:
  
  Closed Period: The most common cause of this error is that the period in which the original document was posted is closed. In SAP, once a financial period is closed, no further postings or reversals can be made to that period.
  Document Type Restrictions: Certain document types may have restrictions on reversals based on company policy or configuration settings.
  Configuration Settings: The system may be configured to prevent reversals in certain scenarios or for specific document types.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Open the Period: If it is necessary to reverse the document, you may need to open the closed period in the configuration settings. This can be done by:
  
  Navigating to the transaction code OB52 (Maintain Fiscal Year Variant).
  Adjusting the period settings to allow for the reversal.
  Note: This should be done with caution and typically requires authorization, as it can affect financial reporting.
  
  
  
  Post in Current Period: If opening the period is not feasible or advisable, consider posting a correcting entry in the current period instead of reversing the original document. This maintains the integrity of the closed period while still addressing the issue.
  
  
  Consult with Finance Team: Before making any changes, it is advisable to consult with your finance or accounting team to ensure compliance with internal policies and accounting standards.
  
  
  Check Document Type: Review the document type and its settings to ensure that it allows for reversals. If necessary, consult with your SAP administrator to adjust the configuration.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as:
  
  FB08: Reverse Document
  OB52: Maintain Fiscal Year Variant
  FBL1N: Vendor Line Item Display (to check related documents)
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific guidance or updates related to this error message. SAP Notes can provide additional context or solutions based on the version of SAP you are using.
  
  
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help files related to financial postings and document reversals for more detailed procedures and best practices.
  
  
  Always ensure that any actions taken are in line with your organization's policies and procedures, especially when dealing with financial data.