How To Fix HRPAYTR03217 - End time comes before the start time

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: HRPAYTR03 -

• Message number: 217

• Message text: End time comes before the start time

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message HRPAYTR03217 - End time comes before the start time ?

  The SAP error message HRPAYTR03217, which states "End time comes before the start time," typically occurs in the context of time management or payroll processing within the SAP Human Capital Management (HCM) module. This error indicates that there is a discrepancy in the time data being processed, where the end time of a work period or time entry is recorded as being earlier than the start time.
  Cause:
  
  Data Entry Error: The most common cause is a simple data entry mistake where the end time is incorrectly entered before the start time.
  Time Evaluation Configuration: There may be issues with the configuration of time evaluation settings that do not properly handle the time entries.
  Incorrect Time Records: If time records are imported or uploaded from external systems, there may be formatting or logical errors in the data.
  Overlapping Time Entries: If there are overlapping time entries for the same employee, it can lead to confusion in the time evaluation process.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Time Entries: Check the time entries for the employee in question. Ensure that the end time is indeed later than the start time. Correct any discrepancies.
  Validate Data Imports: If the data was imported from an external system, validate the data format and logic to ensure that all time entries are correctly formatted and logical.
  Check Configuration: Review the time evaluation configuration settings in SAP to ensure they are set up correctly. This may involve checking the rules for time evaluation and ensuring they align with business processes.
  Use Time Management Reports: Utilize SAP standard reports to identify any problematic time entries. Reports like "Time Evaluation Results" can help pinpoint where the issue lies.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help notes related to time management and payroll processing for additional guidance on resolving this error.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may use transaction codes like PA20 (Display HR Master Data) or PA30 (Maintain HR Master Data) to review employee time data.
  Time Management Module: Familiarize yourself with the Time Management module in SAP HCM, as it contains various functionalities related to time recording and evaluation.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  User Roles: Ensure that the user has the appropriate roles and authorizations to make changes to time entries.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the HRPAYTR03217 error in SAP.