How To Fix PU021 - Header &1: Return code set to 'ended'

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PU - Upgrade and Transport Log Messages

• Message number: 021

• Message text: Header &1: Return code set to 'ended'

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PU021 - Header &1: Return code set to 'ended' ?

  The SAP error message PU021, which states "Header &1: Return code set to 'ended'," typically occurs in the context of payroll processing or when dealing with personnel administration. This message indicates that there is an issue with the processing of a payroll run or a related function, and the return code has been set to 'ended', meaning that the process has terminated without completing successfully.
  Causes:
  
  Data Issues: There may be missing or incorrect data in the employee master records or payroll results that prevent the payroll run from completing.
  Configuration Errors: Incorrect configuration in the payroll schema or rules can lead to this error.
  Authorization Problems: The user executing the payroll run may not have the necessary authorizations to perform the action.
  Technical Issues: There could be underlying technical issues, such as database problems or system performance issues, that affect the payroll processing.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Data Integrity: Review the employee master data and payroll results for any inconsistencies or missing information. Ensure that all required fields are populated correctly.
  Review Configuration: Examine the payroll schema and rules to ensure they are set up correctly. Look for any recent changes that might have introduced errors.
  Authorization Check: Verify that the user has the necessary authorizations to execute the payroll run. This can be done by checking the user's roles and permissions in the system.
  Analyze Logs: Check the application logs and the payroll log for any additional error messages or warnings that can provide more context about the issue.
  Test in Development: If possible, replicate the issue in a development or test environment to identify the root cause without affecting production data.
  Consult SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error message or provide guidance on similar issues.
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists and cannot be resolved internally, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as PA30 (Maintain HR Master Data), PC00_MXX_CALC (Payroll Calculation), and others that may help in troubleshooting.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to payroll processing and error handling for more insights.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the PU021 error and implement a solution to resolve it.