How To Fix 5E157 - Off-cycle record with same date, category and identifier already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 5E - Error messages for Spanish infotypes module pools

• Message number: 157

• Message text: Off-cycle record with same date, category and identifier already exists

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 5E157 - Off-cycle record with same date, category and identifier already exists ?

  The SAP error message 5E157 indicates that there is an attempt to create an off-cycle payroll record that conflicts with an existing record. Specifically, it means that there is already an off-cycle record with the same date, category, and identifier in the system. This can occur during payroll processing when you try to create a new off-cycle payment or adjustment for an employee.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Off-Cycle Record: The most common cause is that an off-cycle payroll record for the same employee, with the same date and category, has already been created.
  Incorrect Data Entry: There may be a mistake in the data entry, leading to an attempt to create a record that already exists.
  System Configuration: In some cases, the system configuration may allow for certain types of records to be created, but not others, leading to conflicts.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Records: 
  
  Use transaction codes like PA20 (Display HR Master Data) or PC00_MXX_CEDT (for off-cycle payroll) to check if an off-cycle record already exists for the employee with the same date and category.
  If a record exists, determine if it is valid or if it needs to be adjusted or deleted.
  
  
  
  Adjust or Delete Existing Record: 
  
  If the existing record is incorrect or needs to be modified, you may need to delete or adjust it before creating a new one.
  Use the appropriate transaction (like PA30 for infotype maintenance) to make changes.
  
  
  
  Use Different Date or Category: 
  
  If the existing record is valid and you need to create a new one, consider using a different date or category for the new off-cycle record.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation: 
  
  Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for specific guidelines on handling off-cycle payroll records.
  
  
  
  Check for System Notes: 
  
  Sometimes, system notes or logs can provide additional context on why the error occurred. Check transaction SLG1 for application logs related to payroll processing.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as PA20, PA30, PC00_MXX_CEDT, and SLG1.
  SAP Notes: Look for SAP Notes related to payroll processing and off-cycle records for any known issues or patches.
  User Roles: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to view and modify payroll records in the system.
  Testing: If you are in a development or testing environment, try replicating the issue to understand the conditions that lead to the error.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error message 5E157 and successfully manage off-cycle payroll records in SAP.