How To Fix F5A185 - Select an earlier posting period

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: F5A - Document Editing

• Message number: 185

• Message text: Select an earlier posting period

What causes this issue?

You have entered a posting period that exceeds the 16 periods permitted
(12 normal and 4 special posting periods).

System Response

How to fix this error?

Select a period within the 16 posting periods permitted.

Procedure for System Administrators

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message F5A185 - Select an earlier posting period ?

  The SAP error message F5A185, which states "Select an earlier posting period," typically occurs when a user attempts to post a transaction in a period that is closed or not open for posting in the system. This is a common issue in financial accounting and controlling modules where periods are defined for posting transactions.
  Cause:
  
  Closed Posting Period: The most common cause is that the posting period for the transaction date is closed. In SAP, posting periods are often closed at the end of a month or year to prevent further postings.
  Configuration Settings: The configuration settings in the financial accounting module may restrict postings to certain periods based on company policies.
  User Authorization: The user may not have the necessary authorization to post in the desired period.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Posting Periods: Verify the posting periods in the system. You can do this by navigating to the transaction code OB52 (Maintain Posting Periods). Ensure that the period you are trying to post to is open.
  Change Transaction Date: If the period is closed, consider changing the transaction date to a date within an open posting period.
  Adjust Configuration: If necessary, consult with your SAP administrator or finance team to adjust the configuration settings to allow postings in the desired period.
  User Authorization: Ensure that the user has the appropriate authorizations to post in the required periods. This may involve checking user roles and permissions.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or your organization's internal guidelines for posting periods and financial transactions.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as:
  
  OB52: To maintain posting periods.
  FB01: To post a document.
  FBL1N: To display vendor line items.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message for additional insights or patches.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on the importance of posting periods and how to manage them effectively.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant for further assistance.