How To Fix WS691 - Transaction supports only documents with the classic settlement method

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WS - Supplier Billing Document

• Message number: 691

• Message text: Transaction supports only documents with the classic settlement method

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WS691 - Transaction supports only documents with the classic settlement method ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WS691 - Transaction supports only documents with the classic settlement method
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs when you try to process a transaction (such as settlement or reposting) that is designed to work only with documents using the classic settlement method, but the document you are processing uses a different settlement method (for example, the new settlement method introduced in newer SAP releases).
  In SAP, there are two main settlement methods for internal orders and other controlling objects:
  
  Classic Settlement Method: The traditional method where settlement rules are maintained manually, and the system processes settlements accordingly.
  New Settlement Method: Introduced in newer SAP versions (e.g., S/4HANA), this method uses a different approach for settlement, often integrated with Universal Allocation or other advanced features.
  
  If a transaction or program is coded to handle only classic settlement documents, it will throw this error when encountering documents settled with the new method.
  
  When does this typically happen?
  
  When running settlement transactions (e.g., KO88, KSU5) or reposting transactions on documents created with the new settlement method.
  When custom programs or reports expect classic settlement documents but receive new settlement documents.
  When mixing classic and new settlement methods in the same controlling object or document.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check the Settlement Method of the Document:
  
  Use transaction KOB1 or display the document to check if it uses classic or new settlement.
  The settlement method is usually defined in the controlling object master data or in the settlement rule.
  
  
  
  Use the Correct Transaction or Program:
  
  For documents with the new settlement method, use the corresponding new settlement transactions or programs.
  Avoid using classic settlement transactions like KO88 on new settlement documents.
  
  
  
  Adjust the Controlling Object Settings:
  
  If you want to use classic settlement, ensure the controlling object (e.g., internal order) is set up with the classic settlement method.
  If the object is set for new settlement, use the new settlement process.
  
  
  
  Check SAP Notes and Documentation:
  
  SAP has notes and guides explaining the differences and migration paths between classic and new settlement methods.
  For example, SAP Note 2345678 (hypothetical) might explain how to handle settlement method changes.
  
  
  
  Custom Code Adjustments:
  
  If you have custom programs, ensure they handle both settlement methods or are adjusted to the new method if applicable.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Settlement Methods in SAP:
  
  Classic settlement is controlled via settlement rules maintained in the controlling object.
  New settlement method uses a different approach, often linked with Universal Allocation or other advanced features.
  
  
  
  Transactions:
  
  Classic settlement: KO88 (Order Settlement), KSU5 (Reposting), etc.
  New settlement: Use the new settlement transactions or Fiori apps designed for the new method.
  
  
  
  Master Data:
  
  Internal orders, WBS elements, and other objects have a field indicating the settlement method.
  
  
  
  SAP Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP Help Portal for "Settlement of Internal Orders" and "New Settlement Method" for detailed explanations.
  
  
  
  
  Summary:
  
  
  
  Aspect
  Details
  
  
  
  
  Error Cause
  Processing a document with new settlement method using a transaction for classic method.
  
  
  Solution
  Use the correct transaction for the settlement method; check and adjust settlement method settings.
  
  
  Related Info
  Classic vs. new settlement methods; master data settings; SAP Notes and documentation.
  
  
  
  
  If you provide the exact transaction or scenario where the error occurs, I can help with more specific guidance.