How To Fix RP856 - Payment month is before assessment month

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RP - Error Messages for Infotype Module Pools

• Message number: 856

• Message text: Payment month is before assessment month

What causes this issue?

The dates you have entered for special rules for bonuses cannot be
processed because the assessment month is after the payment month.

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?

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message RP856 - Payment month is before assessment month ?

  The SAP error message RP856 ("Payment month is before assessment month") typically occurs in the context of payroll processing when there is a mismatch between the payment month and the assessment month in the payroll run. This error indicates that the system is trying to process a payment for a month that precedes the month in which the payroll assessment is being conducted.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Configuration: The payroll configuration may not be set up correctly, leading to discrepancies between the payment and assessment months.
  Data Entry Errors: Manual entries in payroll processing may have incorrect dates or months.
  Payroll Period Settings: The payroll periods may not be aligned correctly, causing the system to interpret the payment month as earlier than the assessment month.
  Retroactive Accounting: If retroactive accounting is involved, it may lead to confusion regarding the correct months for payment and assessment.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Payroll Configuration: Review the payroll configuration settings to ensure that the payment and assessment periods are correctly defined.
  Verify Dates: Ensure that the dates entered for the payroll run are correct. The payment month should always be equal to or later than the assessment month.
  Adjust Payroll Periods: If necessary, adjust the payroll periods in the system to ensure they align correctly.
  Review Retroactive Accounting Settings: If retroactive accounting is being used, ensure that it is set up correctly and that the relevant periods are properly defined.
  Run Payroll in Correct Order: Ensure that payroll runs are executed in the correct sequence, starting from the earliest month to the latest.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message. SAP frequently releases updates that may address known issues.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation for payroll processing to understand the implications of payment and assessment months.
  Consult with SAP Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance, especially if it involves complex payroll configurations or customizations.
  
  By addressing the underlying causes and ensuring that the payroll configuration is correct, you should be able to resolve the RP856 error and proceed with the payroll processing.