How To Fix W+278 - Main and parallel currencies are identical. Change the parallel currency

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: W+ -

• Message number: 278

• Message text: Main and parallel currencies are identical. Change the parallel currency

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W+278 - Main and parallel currencies are identical. Change the parallel currency ?

  The SAP error message W+278 indicates that there is an issue with the configuration of currencies in your SAP system, specifically regarding the main and parallel currencies being set to the same value. This can occur in various modules, particularly in Financial Accounting (FI) and Controlling (CO).
  Cause:
  The error arises when the system detects that the main currency (the primary currency used for financial reporting) and the parallel currency (an additional currency used for reporting) are identical. This situation is not allowed because the parallel currency is intended to provide a different perspective on financial data, typically for reporting purposes in different currencies.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you need to change the configuration so that the main currency and the parallel currency are different. Here are the steps to do this:
  
  
  Access the Configuration:
  
  Go to the SAP Easy Access screen.
  Navigate to the following path: SPRO -> SAP Reference IMG -> Financial Accounting (New) -> Financial Accounting Global Settings (New) -> Currencies -> Define Company Currencies.
  
  
  
  Change the Currency Settings:
  
  Find the company code or controlling area that is causing the issue.
  Check the settings for the main currency and the parallel currency.
  Change the parallel currency to a different currency that is not the same as the main currency.
  
  
  
  Save Changes:
  
  After making the necessary changes, save your configuration.
  
  
  
  Test the Changes:
  
  Perform a test transaction to ensure that the error message no longer appears and that the system behaves as expected.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Currency Types: In SAP, there are typically three types of currencies: the company code currency (main currency), the group currency (parallel currency), and the hard currency (if applicable).
  Impact on Reporting: Changing the parallel currency may affect financial reporting and should be done with consideration of the implications for financial statements and reporting requirements.
  User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to currency settings in the SAP system.
  Consult Documentation: Always refer to the official SAP documentation or consult with your SAP Basis or FI/CO consultant for specific guidance tailored to your organization's configuration.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the W+278 error and ensure that your currency settings are correctly configured.