How To Fix AR204 - First four characters of the SWIFT code &1 must be letters

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AR - SSRV function module messages

• Message number: 204

• Message text: First four characters of the SWIFT code &1 must be letters

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AR204 - First four characters of the SWIFT code &1 must be letters ?

  The SAP error message AR204 indicates that there is an issue with the SWIFT code being used in a transaction or configuration. Specifically, the error states that the first four characters of the SWIFT code must be letters. This is a requirement because SWIFT codes (also known as Business Identifier Codes or BICs) follow a specific format, where the first four characters represent the bank or financial institution and must be alphabetic.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect SWIFT Code Format: The SWIFT code entered may contain numbers or special characters in the first four positions instead of letters.
  Data Entry Error: There may have been a typographical error when entering the SWIFT code.
  System Configuration Issue: The SWIFT code may not be properly configured in the system, leading to validation errors.
  
  Solution:
  
  Verify the SWIFT Code: Check the SWIFT code for accuracy. Ensure that the first four characters are letters and that the entire code adheres to the standard format (8 or 11 characters).
  Correct the Entry: If you find that the SWIFT code is incorrect, update it with the correct code that meets the SWIFT format requirements.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to the official SWIFT documentation or your financial institution for the correct SWIFT code.
  Test the Change: After making corrections, re-attempt the transaction or process that triggered the error to ensure that it is resolved.
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  SWIFT Code Format: A typical SWIFT code consists of 8 or 11 characters:
  
  The first four characters are the bank code (letters).
  The next two characters are the country code (letters).
  The next two characters are the location code (letters and/or digits).
  The last three characters (optional) are the branch code (letters and/or digits).
  
  
  
  SAP Configuration: If you are frequently encountering this error, it may be worth reviewing the configuration settings in SAP related to bank master data or payment processing to ensure that SWIFT codes are being validated correctly.
  
  
  SAP Support: If the issue persists after verifying the SWIFT code, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting the SAP Help Portal for further assistance.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the AR204 error and ensure that the SWIFT code is correctly formatted for your transactions.