How To Fix ME251 - From date later than "to" date (Please correct)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ME - Purchasing: General Messages

• Message number: 251

• Message text: From date later than "to" date (Please correct)

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ME251 - From date later than "to" date (Please correct) ?

  The SAP error message ME251 "From date later than 'to' date (Please correct)" typically occurs in the context of creating or modifying purchase requisitions or purchase orders. This error indicates that the date range specified in the document is incorrect, specifically that the "From" date is set to a date that is later than the "To" date.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Date Entry: The user has entered the "From" date as a later date than the "To" date in the relevant fields.
  System Configuration: There may be a configuration issue in the system that is causing the date fields to be misinterpreted.
  Data Migration Issues: If data has been migrated from another system, there may be inconsistencies in date formats or values.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Date Fields: Review the "From" and "To" date fields in the document. Ensure that the "From" date is earlier than the "To" date.
  
  Navigate to the relevant transaction (e.g., ME51N for creating purchase requisitions).
  Locate the date fields and correct them accordingly.
  
  
  
  Validation: After correcting the dates, validate the entries to ensure that the error does not reoccur.
  
  
  User Training: If this error is frequent, consider providing training to users on how to correctly enter date ranges.
  
  
  System Configuration Review: If the issue persists, consult with your SAP Basis or configuration team to review any settings that might affect date handling.
  
  
  Check for Custom Code: If there are any custom enhancements or user exits that manipulate date fields, review them for potential issues.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: ME51N (Create Purchase Requisition), ME52N (Change Purchase Requisition), ME53N (Display Purchase Requisition).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to date handling in your version of SAP.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for guidelines on date formats and handling in purchase requisitions and orders.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the ME251 error and ensure that date entries are correctly configured in your SAP system.