How To Fix PAIS038 - Infotype &1 cannot be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PAIS - Messages for PA-IS (Ad Hoc Query etc.)

• Message number: 038

• Message text: Infotype &1 cannot be deleted

What causes this issue?

You have attempted to delete infotype &V1& (object type '&V2&', subtype
'&V3&') from the InfoSet. However, the check routine determined that
some of the infotype's fields (or assigned additional fields) are used
in queries. If you were to delete the infotype, the status of these
queries would be inconsistent.

System Response

The system prevents you from deleting the infotype from the InfoSet.

How to fix this error?

If you still want to delete the infotype, you must ensure that none of
its fields is used in queries.

Procedure for System Administrators

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PAIS038 - Infotype &1 cannot be deleted ?

  The SAP error message PAIS038 indicates that a specific infotype (in this case, represented by &1) cannot be deleted. This error typically arises in the context of personnel administration when attempting to delete an infotype record for an employee.
  Causes:
  
  Infotype Locking: The infotype may be locked due to ongoing processes or transactions that are currently using it.
  Data Consistency: The infotype may be linked to other records or infotypes that prevent its deletion to maintain data integrity.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to delete the infotype.
  Infotype Status: The infotype may be in a status that does not allow deletion (e.g., if it is marked as "historical" or "archived").
  Time Constraints: The infotype may be outside the permissible time frame for deletion, such as being part of a closed payroll period.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Locks: Verify if the infotype is locked by another user or process. You can use transaction code SM12 to check for locks.
  Review Dependencies: Check if the infotype is linked to other infotypes or records. You may need to delete or modify those records first.
  Authorization Check: Ensure that the user has the necessary permissions to delete the infotype. This can be checked in transaction code SU53 or by consulting with your security team.
  Status Review: Check the status of the infotype. If it is marked as historical or archived, you may need to follow specific procedures to delete it.
  Time Frame: Ensure that the infotype is within the allowable time frame for deletion. If it is outside this range, you may need to consult with your HR or payroll team for guidance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as PA30 (Maintain HR Master Data), PA20 (Display HR Master Data), and SM12 (Display and Delete Locks).
  Infotype Documentation: Review the documentation for the specific infotype to understand its purpose and any constraints related to its deletion.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the specific infotype or error message.
  Consulting SAP Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance, especially if it appears to be a system-related issue.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the PAIS038 error and take appropriate action to resolve it.