How To Fix MA801 - Invalid date (contains characters other than 0-9)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MA - Sales and Operations Planning

• Message number: 801

• Message text: Invalid date (contains characters other than 0-9)

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MA801 - Invalid date (contains characters other than 0-9) ?

  The SAP error message MA801, which states "Invalid date (contains characters other than 0-9)," typically occurs when a date field in the system contains invalid characters or is formatted incorrectly. This can happen in various transactions or data entry points within SAP, particularly when dealing with date fields.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Characters: The date field may contain characters that are not numeric (0-9), such as letters, special characters, or spaces.
  Incorrect Format: The date may not be in the expected format (e.g., DD/MM/YYYY or MM/DD/YYYY) as per the system's configuration.
  Data Entry Error: Users may inadvertently enter incorrect data while filling out forms or uploading data.
  Data Migration Issues: If data has been migrated from another system, it may not conform to the expected date format in SAP.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Input: Review the date field for any non-numeric characters. Ensure that only numbers are present.
  Correct Format: Ensure that the date is entered in the correct format as required by the SAP system. Refer to the specific date format settings in your SAP configuration.
  Data Validation: Implement validation checks in the data entry process to prevent invalid characters from being entered in date fields.
  Data Cleansing: If the error arises from data migration, perform data cleansing to ensure that all date fields conform to the expected format.
  User Training: Provide training to users on the correct way to enter dates in the system to minimize errors.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes that involve date entry, such as MM01 (Create Material), ME21N (Create Purchase Order), etc.
  Field Documentation: Review the documentation for the specific fields where the error occurs to understand the expected input format.
  System Configuration: Consult with your SAP Basis or configuration team to ensure that the date formats are set correctly in the system settings.
  
  By addressing the above points, you should be able to resolve the MA801 error and ensure that date entries are valid and correctly formatted in your SAP system.