How To Fix RETMCA020 - &1: overlap of time periods: &2 is within &3

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RETMCA - Terms

• Message number: 020

• Message text: &1: overlap of time periods: &2 is within &3

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message RETMCA020 - &1: overlap of time periods: &2 is within &3 ?

  The SAP error message RETMCA020 indicates that there is an overlap of time periods in a specific context, typically related to master data or configuration settings in SAP. This error often arises in scenarios involving time-dependent data, such as validity periods for master records, contracts, or other time-sensitive entries.
  Cause:
  The error message RETMCA020 occurs when you attempt to create or modify a record that has a time period that overlaps with an existing record. The message format indicates that the new time period (&2) you are trying to enter is within the time period of an existing record (&3). This can happen in various modules, including but not limited to:
  
  Master data management (e.g., customer or vendor records)
  Contract management
  Time management
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the RETMCA020 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Identify Overlapping Records:
  
  Check the existing records that are causing the overlap. You can do this by reviewing the time periods of the records in question.
  
  
  
  Adjust Time Periods:
  
  Modify the time period of the new record you are trying to create or change so that it does not overlap with the existing record. Ensure that the start and end dates do not fall within the range of the existing record.
  
  
  
  Delete or Archive Existing Records:
  
  If the existing record is no longer needed, consider deleting or archiving it to eliminate the overlap.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help resources related to the specific module you are working with to understand the rules governing time periods.
  
  
  
  Check Configuration Settings:
  
  If this error occurs frequently, it may be worth reviewing the configuration settings in your SAP system to ensure that they align with your business processes and do not inadvertently allow overlapping periods.
  
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support:
  
  If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to SAP support or your internal SAP team for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context, you may need to use specific transaction codes to view or edit the records in question (e.g., SE16 for table views, or specific transaction codes for master data maintenance).
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this error or provide additional guidance.
  User Exits and BAdIs: In some cases, custom logic may be implemented that affects how time periods are handled. Review any user exits or BAdIs that may be relevant.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the RETMCA020 error and implement a solution to resolve it.