How To Fix BK237 - The new posting date is older than the old posting date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BK - Create, Display, Reverse Controlling Document

• Message number: 237

• Message text: The new posting date is older than the old posting date

What causes this issue?

You entered a new posting date.

System Response

Dates that are before the posting date of the original document cannot
be used.

How to fix this error?

Enter another date.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BK237 - The new posting date is older than the old posting date ?

  The SAP error message BK237, which states "The new posting date is older than the old posting date," typically occurs during the process of posting a financial document or making changes to an existing document in the SAP system. This error indicates that the system is trying to assign a posting date that is earlier than the date of the original document, which is not allowed in SAP's financial accounting module.
  Cause:
  
  Date Mismatch: The user is attempting to change the posting date of a document to a date that is earlier than the original posting date.
  Document Type Restrictions: Certain document types may have restrictions on changing posting dates, especially if they are already posted and have subsequent documents or transactions linked to them.
  Period Closing: The posting date may fall into a closed accounting period, which can also trigger this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Posting Dates: Verify the original posting date of the document and ensure that the new posting date is later than the original date.
  Adjust the Posting Date: If you need to change the posting date, select a date that is equal to or later than the original posting date.
  Review Document Type Settings: Check if the document type allows for changes to the posting date. If not, you may need to create a new document with the correct date.
  Consult with Finance Team: If the document is part of a closed period or if there are other restrictions, consult with your finance team or SAP administrator for guidance on how to proceed.
  Use Transaction Codes: If you are trying to reverse or adjust a document, consider using appropriate transaction codes (like FB08 for reversing a document) that may allow you to handle the situation correctly.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation regarding posting periods, document types, and financial postings for more detailed guidance.
  User Permissions: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to make changes to financial documents, as restrictions may also lead to errors.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to reach out to your SAP support team for further assistance.