How To Fix PG088 - Specified subtype is invalid

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PG - Error Messages for Master Data Programs

• Message number: 088

• Message text: Specified subtype is invalid

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 PG088 - Specified subtype is invalid ?

  The SAP error message PG088, which states "Specified subtype is invalid," typically occurs in the context of personnel administration or when dealing with infotypes in SAP HR (Human Resources). This error indicates that the subtype you are trying to use is not valid for the specified infotype or that it does not exist in the system.
  Causes:
  
  Invalid Subtype: The subtype you are trying to enter does not exist or is not defined for the infotype you are working with.
  Configuration Issues: The infotype or subtype may not be properly configured in the system.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the specified subtype.
  Data Entry Errors: There may be a typographical error in the subtype code being entered.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Subtype Validity:
  
  Verify that the subtype you are trying to use is valid for the infotype in question. You can do this by checking the configuration in the SAP system.
  Use transaction code PM01 or SM30 to view the configuration of the infotype and its subtypes.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration:
  
  If you have access, check the configuration settings for the infotype and ensure that the subtype is correctly defined.
  If you are not an administrator, contact your SAP HR administrator to verify the configuration.
  
  
  
  Correct Data Entry:
  
  Double-check the subtype code you are entering for any typographical errors. Ensure that you are using the correct code.
  
  
  
  Authorization Check:
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to access the infotype and subtype. If you suspect an authorization issue, contact your SAP security team.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific details about the infotype and its valid subtypes.
  
  
  
  Testing in a Sandbox:
  
  If possible, test the entry in a sandbox or development environment to see if the issue persists. This can help isolate whether the problem is with the specific environment or configuration.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Infotypes: In SAP HR, infotypes are used to store employee data. Each infotype can have multiple subtypes that further categorize the data.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as PA30 (Maintain HR Master Data) and PA20 (Display HR Master Data) to navigate and troubleshoot HR data issues.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the error message PG088.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be necessary to escalate the issue to SAP support or your internal IT team for further investigation.