How To Fix KM281 - The last day of period & & could not be found

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KM - Error messages for Profit Center Accounting

• Message number: 281

• Message text: The last day of period & & could not be found

What causes this issue?

The system could not determine the last day of the period &V1& &V2& for
the fiscal year variant &V3& in controlling area &V4&.

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

System Response

The system cannot transfer the work in process.

How to fix this error?

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KM281 - The last day of period & & could not be found ?

  The SAP error message KM281, which states "The last day of period & & could not be found," typically occurs in the context of the SAP Controlling (CO) module, particularly when dealing with period-end closing activities or when trying to execute certain reports or transactions that require a valid period.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Period Configuration: The error often arises when the system cannot find the last day of a specified period in the controlling area. This can happen if the period has not been defined or if the fiscal year variant is not properly configured.
  Incorrect Fiscal Year Variant: If the fiscal year variant assigned to the company code or controlling area does not match the periods being referenced, this error can occur.
  Period Status: The period might be closed or not open for posting, which can lead to the system being unable to find the last day of that period.
  Data Consistency Issues: There may be inconsistencies in the data that prevent the system from recognizing the period correctly.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Period Configuration:
  
  Go to the transaction code OB52 to check the open and closed periods for the controlling area. Ensure that the period you are trying to access is open.
  Verify that the fiscal year variant is correctly assigned to the controlling area and that the periods are defined correctly.
  
  
  
  Review Fiscal Year Variant:
  
  Use transaction code OB29 to check the fiscal year variant settings. Ensure that the periods are set up correctly and that the last day of the period is defined.
  
  
  
  Adjust Period Status:
  
  If the period is closed and you need to make adjustments, you may need to open the period temporarily using transaction code OB52. Be cautious with this approach, as it can affect financial reporting.
  
  
  
  Check for Data Consistency:
  
  Run consistency checks or reports to ensure that there are no data issues affecting the period definitions. This may involve checking for any missing entries in the relevant tables.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or notes related to this error message for any specific guidance or patches that may address the issue.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  OB52: Open and Close Posting Periods
  OB29: Maintain Fiscal Year Variant
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to this error message.
  User Roles: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to access the periods and perform the required actions.
  
  If the issue persists after checking these areas, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or reach out to SAP support for further assistance.