How To Fix GU712 - Entry cannot be activated because of overlapping active dates

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GU - FI-SL utilities

• Message number: 712

• Message text: Entry cannot be activated because of overlapping active dates

What causes this issue?

In master data maintenance, you can enter the same values for one field,
provided they are valid for different dates.
Example: You entered the following master data for the Account field:
Value Valid from Valid to Text
400000 01/01/year 1 12/31/year 1 Account for year 2
400000 01/01/year 2 12/31/year 2 Account for year 2
The above entry is correct because the same values are valid for
different times.
Value Valid from Valid to Text
400000 01/01/year 1 07/31/year 1 Account for year 1
400000 01/01/year 1 12/31/year 2 Account for year 2
The above entry is incorrect because the validity periods overlap.

System Response

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

How to fix this error?

Check that your entry does not overlap with existing active dates.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GU712 - Entry cannot be activated because of overlapping active dates ?

  The SAP error message GU712, which states "Entry cannot be activated because of overlapping active dates," typically occurs in the context of master data management, particularly when dealing with validity periods for certain entries in SAP, such as cost centers, profit centers, or other master data records.
  Cause:
  The error arises when you attempt to activate a new entry (or change an existing one) that has a validity period (start date and end date) that overlaps with an already existing active entry. This means that there are two or more records that have overlapping date ranges, which can lead to confusion in reporting and data integrity issues.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Existing Entries: Review the existing entries in the relevant master data table to identify any records that have overlapping date ranges with the entry you are trying to activate. You can do this by checking the validity periods of the existing records.
  
  
  Adjust Dates: If you find overlapping entries, you will need to adjust the validity dates of either the new entry or the existing entries. Ensure that the date ranges do not overlap. You can either:
  
  Change the start or end date of the new entry.
  Change the start or end date of the existing entry to create a non-overlapping period.
  
  
  
  Delete or Archive Old Entries: If the existing entries are no longer needed, consider deleting or archiving them if your business process allows for it. This will free up the date range for the new entry.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the implications of changing or deleting entries, consult your organization's documentation or speak with a knowledgeable colleague or SAP consultant.
  
  
  Test Changes: After making the necessary adjustments, try to activate the entry again to see if the error persists.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the type of master data you are working with, you may use different transaction codes (e.g., KS01 for cost centers, KP06 for planning, etc.) to view and manage the entries.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message, as there may be known issues or additional guidance provided by SAP.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to the master data entries.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the GU712 error and successfully activate your entry in SAP.