How To Fix WAB053 - Item cancellation only possible with Settlement using Follow-On Documents

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WAB - Messages Settlement Management

• Message number: 053

• Message text: Item cancellation only possible with Settlement using Follow-On Documents

What causes this issue?

Supplier and customer settlements can only be canceled using settlement
method <LS>Settlement using Follow-On Documents</> at item level.

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?

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WAB053 - Item cancellation only possible with Settlement using Follow-On Documents ?

  The SAP error message WAB053, which states "Item cancellation only possible with Settlement using Follow-On Documents," typically occurs in the context of the SAP system when dealing with the cancellation of items in a billing document or a similar transaction. This error indicates that the system requires a specific process to handle the cancellation of items, particularly when there are follow-on documents involved.
  Cause:
  The error arises when you attempt to cancel an item in a billing document or a related transaction without following the necessary procedures for settlement. In SAP, certain transactions are linked to follow-on documents (like invoices, credit memos, etc.), and the system enforces rules to ensure that these documents are properly managed.
  Solution:
  To resolve the WAB053 error, you should follow these steps:
  
  
  Check Follow-On Documents: Identify if there are any follow-on documents related to the item you are trying to cancel. This could include invoices, credit memos, or other related documents.
  
  
  Perform Settlement: Before you can cancel the item, you may need to perform a settlement using the appropriate follow-on documents. This typically involves:
  
  Creating a credit memo or a similar document that offsets the original transaction.
  Ensuring that all related financial postings are settled correctly.
  
  
  
  Use the Correct Transaction: Make sure you are using the correct transaction codes and processes for cancellation. Depending on your specific scenario, you may need to use different transaction codes (e.g., VF11 for credit memo creation).
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or your organization's internal guidelines for handling cancellations and settlements. This can provide specific instructions tailored to your business processes.
  
  
  Check User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to perform the cancellation and settlement processes. Lack of proper permissions can also lead to errors.
  
  
  Contact Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert who can provide further assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as VF01 (Create Billing Document), VF02 (Change Billing Document), and VF11 (Cancel Billing Document).
  Business Processes: Understand the business processes related to billing and cancellations in your organization, as these can vary significantly between different implementations of SAP.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the WAB053 error and successfully manage item cancellations in your SAP system.