How To Fix EARC226 - Program stop: User exit (ETOAR006) cannot reduce retention period

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EARC - IS-U: Archiving

• Message number: 226

• Message text: Program stop: User exit (ETOAR006) cannot reduce retention period

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 EARC226 - Program stop: User exit (ETOAR006) cannot reduce retention period ?

  The SAP error message EARC226, which states "Program stop: User exit (ETOAR006) cannot reduce retention period," typically occurs in the context of the Archiving and Retention Management (ARM) module in SAP. This error indicates that there is an issue with the retention period settings for archived data, specifically that a user exit is preventing the reduction of the retention period.
  Cause:
  
  Retention Period Configuration: The retention period for certain data types is defined in the system. If there is an attempt to reduce this retention period (for example, during an archiving process), the user exit ETOAR006 is triggered to prevent this action.
  User Exit Logic: The user exit ETOAR006 is designed to enforce business rules regarding data retention. It may be configured to prevent any changes that would violate compliance or business requirements.
  Data Integrity Concerns: The system may be set up to ensure that data is retained for a minimum period to comply with legal or business requirements.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review User Exit Logic: Check the implementation of the user exit ETOAR006. You may need to consult with your ABAP developer or SAP Basis team to understand the logic and determine if it can be modified to allow for the desired retention period changes.
  Adjust Retention Period: If the retention period needs to be changed, ensure that it is being done in accordance with your organization's data retention policies. If a reduction is necessary, you may need to consult with compliance or legal teams to ensure that it is permissible.
  Configuration Settings: Review the configuration settings for archiving and retention management in your SAP system. Ensure that the retention periods are set correctly and that any changes align with business requirements.
  Testing: After making any changes, conduct thorough testing to ensure that the system behaves as expected and that the error does not recur.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to the EARC226 error and user exit ETOAR006. SAP Notes can provide patches or additional guidance.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation on Archiving and Retention Management to understand best practices and configuration options.
  Consult SAP Support: If the issue persists or if you are unsure about making changes, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance.
  
  By addressing the underlying cause of the error and ensuring compliance with retention policies, you can resolve the EARC226 error effectively.