How To Fix RETMPE403 - End of the contract term is before the contract start date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RETMPE - Clauses for Validity Period

• Message number: 403

• Message text: End of the contract term is before the contract start date

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message RETMPE403 - End of the contract term is before the contract start date ?

  The SAP error message RETMPE403 indicates that there is a discrepancy in the contract dates, specifically that the end date of the contract is set before the start date. This is a logical error because a contract cannot end before it begins.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Date Entry: The end date of the contract was entered incorrectly, either manually or through a data import.
  System Configuration: There may be issues with the configuration of the contract management module that allows for invalid date entries.
  Data Migration Issues: If data was migrated from another system, the dates may not have been transferred correctly.
  User Error: Users may not be aware of the correct sequence of dates when creating or modifying contracts.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Contract Dates: Review the contract details in the SAP system. Ensure that the start date is earlier than the end date.
  Correct the Dates: If the end date is incorrect, update it to a date that is after the start date.
  Validation Rules: Implement validation rules in the system to prevent users from entering an end date that is before the start date in the future.
  User Training: Provide training to users on how to correctly enter contract dates to avoid this error in the future.
  Review Configuration: If the issue persists, review the configuration settings in the contract management module to ensure they are set up correctly.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like ME31K (Create Contract) or ME32K (Change Contract) to access and modify contract details.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this issue or provide additional guidance.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation for contract management to understand the expected behavior and best practices for managing contract dates.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the RETMPE403 error and ensure that contract dates are entered correctly in the future.