How To Fix 3W620 - The end date must not be earlier than the begin date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 3W - HR: Message Class South Africa

• Message number: 620

• Message text: The end date must not be earlier than the begin date

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 3W620 - The end date must not be earlier than the begin date ?

  The SAP error message 3W620 ("The end date must not be earlier than the begin date") typically occurs in scenarios where date ranges are being validated, such as in project management, time management, or any module that involves scheduling or planning.
  Cause:
  This error arises when a user attempts to enter or save a date range where the end date is set before the start date. This is logically incorrect, as an end date cannot precede a start date.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, follow these steps:
  
  
  Check Date Entries: Review the date fields in the transaction or screen where the error occurred. Ensure that the end date is set to a date that is equal to or later than the start date.
  
  
  Correct the Dates: If you find that the end date is indeed earlier than the start date, modify the end date to a valid date that meets the requirement.
  
  
  Validation: After making the changes, validate the entries again to ensure that the error does not reoccur.
  
  
  Save Changes: Once the dates are corrected, save the changes to proceed without encountering the error.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: This error can occur in various transaction codes depending on the context (e.g., creating a project, entering time data, etc.).
  User Input: Ensure that users are trained to input dates correctly and understand the logical flow of date ranges.
  System Configuration: In some cases, custom validations or configurations in the SAP system may lead to this error. If the issue persists despite correct date entries, consult with your SAP administrator or technical team to check for any custom logic that might be affecting date validation.
  
  Additional Tips:
  
  Date Format: Ensure that the date format being used is consistent with the system settings (e.g., DD/MM/YYYY vs. MM/DD/YYYY).
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for specific modules to understand how date ranges are handled in that context.
  Testing: If you are developing or customizing SAP applications, consider implementing additional checks or user prompts to prevent this error from occurring in the first place.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error message 3W620 effectively.