How To Fix H1466 - Period cannot be shortened

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: H1 - Messages Used in HR Funds and Position Management

• Message number: 466

• Message text: Period cannot be shortened

What causes this issue?

You tried to shorten the period of the classification of the
expenditure type Basic Pay. You cannot do this, however, because other
expenditure types exist in the period you want to delete.

System Response

No further processing possible.

How to fix this error?

Delete the other expenditure types first.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message H1466 - Period cannot be shortened ?

  The SAP error message H1466 ("Period cannot be shortened") typically occurs in the context of financial or controlling modules when attempting to shorten a posting period that has already been closed or has transactions recorded against it. This error is often encountered during activities such as period-end closing, where users may try to adjust the periods for financial reporting.
  Cause:
  
  Closed Period: The period you are trying to shorten has already been closed for postings. In SAP, once a period is closed, it is generally not allowed to make changes to it.
  Transactions Recorded: There may be transactions that have already been posted in the period you are trying to shorten, which prevents the system from allowing changes.
  Configuration Settings: The system configuration may restrict the ability to shorten periods based on company policies or settings in the controlling or financial modules.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Period Status: Verify the status of the period you are trying to shorten. If it is closed, you may need to reopen it if your business processes allow for that.
  Reopen the Period: If necessary and permissible, you can reopen the period in the configuration settings. This typically involves:
  
  Navigating to the appropriate configuration settings in SAP (e.g., through transaction code OB52 for financial accounting).
  Adjusting the period status to allow postings.
  
  
  Review Transactions: Check for any transactions that may have been posted in the period. If there are transactions, you may need to reverse or adjust them before you can shorten the period.
  Consult with Finance Team: If you are unsure about the implications of reopening a period or adjusting transactions, consult with your finance or controlling team to ensure compliance with accounting standards and internal policies.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as OB52 (for managing posting periods) and other related financial transaction codes.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help files related to period closing and opening procedures to understand the implications of changing periods.
  User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to posting periods, as this may be restricted based on user roles.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or refer to SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message.