Comprehensive Detailed Explanation with all SAP S/4HANA Cloud References

In SAP S/4HANA, the technical clearing account is used as an intermediary account during specific financial transactions to ensure proper reconciliation and accounting. It temporarily holds values during complex postings before they are transferred to their final accounts. Let’s analyze each option to determine in which scenarios the technical clearing account is posted.

Explanation of Each Option:

A. Asset transfer posting between asset classes

Correct : When transferring assets between different asset classes (e.g., from machinery to buildings), the system uses the technical clearing account to temporarily hold the value of the asset being transferred. This ensures that the transaction is balanced and reconciled before the value is posted to the new asset class.

Reference : According to SAP documentation, asset transfers between asset classes require the use of a technical clearing account to handle the intermediate step in the transfer process.

D. Valuated goods receipt on a purchase order with an asset as account assignment

Correct : When performing a valuated goods receipt for a purchase order where the account assignment is an asset, the system posts the invoice amount to the technical clearing account. This ensures that the value is temporarily held until the final settlement to the asset account occurs.

Reference : In SAP S/4HANA, valuated goods receipts with asset account assignments use the technical clearing account to manage the transition between procurement and asset capitalization.

B. Settlement of an investment order to an asset under construction

Incorrect : During the settlement of an investment order to an asset under construction (AuC), the system directly posts the costs to the AuC without using the technical clearing account. The settlement process does not require an intermediary account because the costs are directly allocated to the asset.

Reference : Settlement of investment orders to AuC is managed through direct postings to the asset account, bypassing the need for a technical clearing account.

C. Direct asset acquisition posting with a vendor invoice (not linked to a purchase order)

Incorrect : For direct asset acquisitions without a purchase order, the system directly posts the invoice amount to the asset account. Since there is no intermediate step requiring reconciliation, the technical clearing account is not used.

Reference : Direct postings to assets do not involve the technical clearing account unless there is a specific procurement or valuation process (e.g., valuated goods receipts).

Key References to SAP S/4HANA Documentation:

SAP S/4HANA Asset Accounting (FI-AA) : Explains the role of the technical clearing account in asset-related transactions, including asset transfers and valuated goods receipts.

SAP Help Portal - Technical Clearing Account : Provides detailed guidance on when and how the technical clearing account is used in SAP S/4HANA.

Goods Receipt Process with Asset Account Assignment : Highlights the use of the technical clearing account during valuated goods receipts for assets.

Investment Order Settlement : Describes the direct settlement process for investment orders to assets under construction.