How To Fix 5Z451 - Reference personnel number &1 has an invalid format

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 5Z - IS-HR/PSG Public Sector Payroll - Germany

• Message number: 451

• Message text: Reference personnel number &1 has an invalid format

What causes this issue?

The reference personnel number is stored on the database as a
12-character field. The first 8 characters of the reference personnel
number must be digits and the last 4 characters must be blanks. The
reference personnel number can only be linked to a personnel number in
the system if this is the case.
The last 4 characters of the reference personnel number &V1& are &V2&
as well as blanks.

System Response

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 5Z451 - Reference personnel number &1 has an invalid format ?

  The SAP error message 5Z451, which states "Reference personnel number &1 has an invalid format," typically occurs when there is an issue with the format of the personnel number being referenced in a transaction or process. Here are the potential causes, solutions, and related information for this error:
  Causes:
  
  
  Incorrect Format: The personnel number may not conform to the expected format defined in the system. This could include issues such as:
  
  Wrong number of digits (too few or too many).
  Inclusion of invalid characters (e.g., letters or special characters).
  
  
  
  Configuration Issues: The configuration settings for personnel numbers in the SAP system may not be set up correctly, leading to format validation errors.
  
  
  Data Entry Errors: The personnel number may have been entered incorrectly by the user, leading to an invalid format.
  
  
  System Customization: If the SAP system has been customized, the rules for valid personnel numbers may have changed, causing previously valid numbers to be flagged as invalid.
  
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Verify Personnel Number: Check the personnel number you are entering to ensure it matches the expected format. This includes:
  
  Confirming the correct number of digits.
  Ensuring that only valid characters are used.
  
  
  
  Check Configuration: If you have access to the configuration settings, review the settings for personnel number formats in the relevant SAP module (e.g., HR). Ensure that the format rules are correctly defined.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation or help files for the specific module you are working with to understand the expected format for personnel numbers.
  
  
  User Training: If data entry errors are common, consider providing additional training to users on how to correctly enter personnel numbers.
  
  
  Contact Support: If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context in which the error occurs, you may be using specific transaction codes related to HR or personnel management (e.g., PA30 for maintaining HR master data).
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error message or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  System Logs: Review system logs for any additional error messages or warnings that may provide more context about the issue.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the SAP error message 5Z451.