How To Fix EARC354 - Program stop: Error reading the start of the billing period

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EARC - IS-U: Archiving

• Message number: 354

• Message text: Program stop: Error reading the start of the billing 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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EARC354 - Program stop: Error reading the start of the billing period ?

  The SAP error message EARC354, which states "Program stop: Error reading the start of the billing period," typically occurs in the context of billing or invoicing processes within SAP. This error can arise due to various reasons, and understanding the cause is essential for finding an appropriate solution.
  Causes:
  
  Incorrect Configuration: The billing period may not be correctly configured in the system, leading to issues when the program attempts to read the start date.
  Missing Data: Required data for the billing period may be missing or incomplete in the relevant master data or transaction data.
  Authorization Issues: The user executing the transaction may not have the necessary authorizations to access the billing period data.
  Program Logic Errors: There may be bugs or issues in the custom code or standard program that is being executed.
  Database Issues: Problems with the database, such as corruption or connectivity issues, can also lead to this error.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Configuration: Review the configuration settings for billing periods in the relevant customizing transactions (e.g., SPRO). Ensure that the billing periods are set up correctly.
  Verify Master Data: Ensure that all necessary master data (e.g., customer master, contract details) is complete and correctly maintained.
  User Authorizations: Check the user roles and authorizations to ensure that the user has the necessary permissions to access the billing period data.
  Debugging: If you have access to the ABAP debugger, you can analyze the program execution to identify where the error occurs. This may help in pinpointing the exact cause.
  Check for Notes and Patches: Look for SAP Notes or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently releases updates that may resolve known issues.
  Consult Logs: Review the application logs (transaction SLG1) for any additional error messages or warnings that may provide more context about the issue.
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot find a resolution, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as VF01 (Create Billing Document), VF02 (Change Billing Document), and VF03 (Display Billing Document) to navigate the billing process.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they found effective.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to billing processes and error handling for more insights.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the EARC354 error in your SAP system.