How To Fix GTCN_MESSAGE138 - Valid-to date must be later than the purchase date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GTCN_MESSAGE - GTCN: Message Class

• Message number: 138

• Message text: Valid-to date must be later than the purchase date

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GTCN_MESSAGE138 - Valid-to date must be later than the purchase date ?

  The SAP error message GTCN_MESSAGE138 indicates that the "Valid-to date must be later than the purchase date." This error typically occurs in the context of managing contracts, agreements, or pricing conditions in SAP, particularly when dealing with validity periods for certain documents or records.
  Cause:
  The error arises when the system detects that the "Valid-to date" (the date until which a contract or condition is valid) is set to a date that is earlier than or the same as the "purchase date" (the date when the purchase or contract was created). This situation is logically incorrect because a contract or condition cannot be valid before or on the same day it is created.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you should take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Dates: Review the "Valid-to date" and "purchase date" fields in the relevant document or transaction. Ensure that the "Valid-to date" is set to a date that is later than the "purchase date."
  
  
  Update Valid-to Date: If the "Valid-to date" is incorrect, update it to a future date that is after the "purchase date." This can usually be done in the relevant transaction screen where the contract or pricing condition is maintained.
  
  
  Review Business Logic: If the dates are being set programmatically (e.g., through a custom program or interface), ensure that the logic correctly assigns the dates based on your business rules.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the correct dates to use, consult your organization's documentation or speak with a colleague who is familiar with the specific business process.
  
  
  Test Changes: After making the necessary adjustments, test the transaction again to ensure that the error no longer occurs.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context, you may be using transaction codes like ME31K (Create Contract), ME32K (Change Contract), or ME33K (Display Contract) when encountering this error.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might provide additional insights or solutions related to this error message.
  User Roles: Ensure that you have the appropriate permissions to make changes to the contract or pricing conditions, as restrictions may also lead to issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the GTCN_MESSAGE138 error and proceed with your SAP transactions.