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How To Fix WS663 - Document type &1 can only be set automatically by the system


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: WS - Supplier Billing Document

  • Message number: 663

  • Message text: Document type &1 can only be set automatically by the system

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  • Self-Explanatory Message

    Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

    To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

    Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.



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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WS663 - Document type &1 can only be set automatically by the system ?

    Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation for the SAP error message:


    SAP Error Message:

    WS663 - Document type &1 can only be set automatically by the system


    Cause:

    This error occurs when a user tries to manually enter or change a document type in a transaction or document where the system expects the document type to be assigned automatically. Certain document types in SAP are system-controlled and cannot be manually selected or modified by users because they are linked to specific business processes or system logic.

    For example, document types related to system-generated documents such as payment documents, clearing documents, or special postings are often set automatically by the system to ensure data consistency and process integrity.


    When does it typically occur?

    • When trying to manually enter a document type in a transaction that only allows system-assigned document types.
    • When customizing or posting documents where the document type is predefined by the system.
    • During automatic postings or background jobs where the document type is controlled by the system logic.

    Solution:

    1. Do not manually enter the document type:
      Allow the system to assign the document type automatically. Remove any manual entry of the document type field in the transaction or program.

    2. Check the transaction or program logic:
      If you are developing or customizing, ensure that the document type field is not being overwritten or manually set in the code or user input screens.

    3. Review configuration:

      • Go to SPRO ? Financial Accounting ? Financial Accounting Global Settings ? Document ? Document Types ? Define Document Types and verify which document types are system-controlled.
      • Confirm that the document type you are trying to use is not one that must be system-assigned.
    4. Use the correct transaction:
      Use the standard SAP transactions or processes that handle the document type assignment automatically.

    5. Consult SAP Notes:
      If this error occurs unexpectedly, check for relevant SAP Notes or patches that might address issues with document type assignment.


    Related Information:

    • Document types in SAP control the document number range, posting rules, and screen layout.
    • Some document types are reserved for system use and cannot be manually assigned.
    • Examples of system-assigned document types include:
      • Payment documents (e.g., 'KZ' for payment)
      • Clearing documents
      • Automatic postings (e.g., depreciation, accruals)
    • Custom document types created by the user can usually be manually assigned unless configured otherwise.

    Summary:

    Error WS663 indicates that the document type you are trying to enter must be assigned by the system automatically and cannot be manually set. To resolve this, avoid manual entry of the document type and let the system handle it based on the transaction or process logic.


    If you provide the specific transaction or scenario where this error occurs, I can help with more tailored advice.

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