How To Fix PN121 - Incorrect key date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PN -

• Message number: 121

• Message text: Incorrect key date

What causes this issue?

The start and end dates are not identical. These dates must be
identical when you select a key date.

System Response

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

How to fix this error?

Correct your entries.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PN121 - Incorrect key date ?

  The SAP error message PN121 "Incorrect key date" typically occurs in the context of personnel administration or payroll processing when the system encounters an issue with the date being used for a specific operation, such as infotype maintenance or payroll calculations. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, potential solutions, and related information:
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Date: The key date provided for the operation is not valid. This could be due to it being in the past or future relative to the data being processed.
  Data Consistency: The key date may not align with the validity periods of the infotypes or records in the system. For example, if an infotype record is only valid until a certain date, trying to access it with a key date beyond that validity will trigger this error.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the system that restrict the use of certain dates for specific operations.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check the Key Date: Ensure that the key date you are using is valid and falls within the acceptable range for the data you are trying to access or modify.
  Review Infotype Validity: Check the validity periods of the infotypes involved. Make sure that the key date is within the validity range of the records you are trying to access.
  Adjust Date in Transaction: If you are using a transaction code (like PA30 for infotype maintenance), make sure to enter a key date that is appropriate for the records you are working with.
  Consult with HR or Payroll Team: If you are unsure about the correct key date to use, consult with your HR or payroll team to understand the context and requirements for the operation you are performing.
  System Configuration: If the issue persists, it may be necessary to review the system configuration settings related to date handling in personnel administration or payroll. This may require assistance from an SAP Basis or HR module consultant.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Infotypes: In SAP HR, infotypes are used to store employee data. Each infotype has a validity period, and operations must respect these periods.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as PA30 (Maintain HR Master Data), PA20 (Display HR Master Data), and others that may be relevant to your task.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions to common problems.
  
  If you continue to experience issues after trying these solutions, it may be beneficial to reach out to SAP support or your internal IT team for further assistance.