How To Fix C+251 - Period records for material &1 already exist

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: C+ -

• Message number: 251

• Message text: Period records for material &1 already exist

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message C+251 - Period records for material &1 already exist ?

  The SAP error message C+251 indicates that there are already existing period records for a specific material in the system. This typically occurs when you attempt to create or modify a period record for a material that already has records for the specified period.
  Cause:
  
  
  Existing Period Records: The primary cause of this error is that the system has already recorded data for the specified material and period. This can happen if:
  
  You are trying to create a new record for a period that has already been closed or recorded.
  There are multiple users or processes trying to create records for the same material and period simultaneously.
  
  
  
  Incorrect Data Entry: Sometimes, the error can arise from incorrect data entry, such as specifying the wrong material number or period.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Records: 
  
  Use transaction codes like MM03 (Display Material) or MM02 (Change Material) to check if there are existing period records for the material in question.
  Navigate to the relevant views (like Accounting or Forecasting) to see if records exist for the specified period.
  
  
  
  Modify or Delete Existing Records: 
  
  If you find existing records that are incorrect or need to be updated, you may need to modify or delete them using the appropriate transaction codes (e.g., MM02 for changes).
  Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make these changes.
  
  
  
  Consult with Colleagues: If you are unsure about the existing records or the implications of modifying them, consult with colleagues or your SAP administrator.
  
  
  Check for Locking Issues: If multiple users are trying to access the same material and period, ensure that there are no locking issues. You can check for locks using transaction SM12.
  
  
  Review Configuration: If this error occurs frequently, it may be worth reviewing the configuration settings related to material management and period closing processes to ensure they align with your business processes.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as:
  
  MM03: Display Material
  MM02: Change Material
  MM01: Create Material
  SM12: Display and manage locks
  MB51: Material Document List (to check for related documents)
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. You can search for notes in the SAP Support Portal.
  
  
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help files related to material management and period records for more detailed guidance.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the C+251 error and manage your material records effectively.