How To Fix BT006 - Start date is in the past

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BT - Background processing messages

• Message number: 006

• Message text: Start date is in the past

What causes this issue?

The start date must be in the future.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Specify a different start date.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BT006 - Start date is in the past ?

  The SAP error message BT006, which states "Start date is in the past," typically occurs when you are trying to create or modify a business transaction (such as a project, order, or activity) with a start date that is earlier than the current date. This can happen in various SAP modules, including Project System (PS), Sales and Distribution (SD), and others.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Date Entry: The most common cause is that the user has mistakenly entered a start date that is earlier than today's date.
  System Settings: In some cases, system settings or configurations may restrict the creation of transactions with past dates.
  Business Rules: Certain business processes may have rules that prevent the scheduling of activities or transactions that start in the past.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check the Date: Verify the start date you have entered. Ensure that it is set to today’s date or a future date.
  Adjust the Date: If the transaction is meant to start in the past for valid reasons (e.g., historical data entry), you may need to adjust the date to a valid future date or consult with your SAP administrator to see if there are any settings that can be modified.
  Consult Documentation: Review any relevant documentation or business process guidelines to ensure compliance with date-related rules.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to create or modify transactions with the specified dates.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with the relevant transaction codes in your SAP environment that may be affected by this error.
  User Training: If this error is common among users, consider providing training on how to correctly enter dates in SAP transactions.
  Support: If the issue persists and you cannot find a resolution, consider reaching out to your SAP support team for further assistance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the BT006 error and proceed with your transaction in SAP.