How To Fix IL801 - Edit mask must not begin with a hyphen

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: IL - PM: ILOM - Functional Locations

• Message number: 801

• Message text: Edit mask must not begin with a hyphen

What causes this issue?

You have placed a separator at the start of the edit mask, which you
are not allowed to do.

System Response

INCLUDE 'KEINE-VERARBEITUNG' OBJECT DOKU ID TX LANGUAGE E

How to fix this error?

Place a valid edit character at the start of the edit mask.
You will see the valid edit characters that you can use when
structuring the edit mask in the online documentation for the
<DS:DE.EDITM>"Edit mask"</> field.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message IL801 - Edit mask must not begin with a hyphen ?

  The SAP error message IL801, which states "Edit mask must not begin with a hyphen," typically occurs when you are trying to define an edit mask for a field in the SAP system, and the edit mask you have specified starts with a hyphen (-). This is not allowed in SAP, as the edit mask must conform to certain formatting rules.
  Cause:
  The error is caused by the following:
  
  The edit mask you are trying to use for a field starts with a hyphen, which is not permitted.
  The edit mask is incorrectly formatted, leading to the system rejecting it.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you should:
  
  
  Check the Edit Mask: Review the edit mask you are trying to use. Ensure that it does not start with a hyphen. For example, if your edit mask is -XX-XXXX, change it to XX-XXXX or another valid format that does not start with a hyphen.
  
  
  Correct Formatting: Ensure that the edit mask follows the correct syntax. Common characters used in edit masks include:
  
  X for alphanumeric characters
  9 for numeric characters
  A for alphabetic characters
  - for literal hyphens (but not at the start)
  
  
  
  Test the Changes: After making the necessary adjustments to the edit mask, test the changes in the relevant transaction or program to ensure that the error no longer occurs.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Edit Masks: Edit masks are used in SAP to define how data should be entered into fields. They help enforce data integrity by specifying the format of the input.
  Field Definitions: When defining fields in custom programs or enhancements, always adhere to SAP's guidelines for field properties, including edit masks.
  SAP Documentation: For more detailed information on edit masks and field definitions, refer to the SAP Help Portal or the specific documentation related to the module you are working with.
  
  If you continue to experience issues after correcting the edit mask, consider checking for other related configurations or consulting with your SAP administrator or support team for further assistance.