How To Fix /SHCM/EMPLOYEE_INT015 - Validity period is not valid: startdate or enddate is initial

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SHCM/EMPLOYEE_INT -

• Message number: 015

• Message text: Validity period is not valid: startdate or enddate is initial

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.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SHCM/EMPLOYEE_INT015 - Validity period is not valid: startdate or enddate is initial ?

  The SAP error message /SHCM/EMPLOYEE_INT015 indicates that there is an issue with the validity period of an employee's data, specifically that either the start date or the end date is not set (i.e., it is "initial" or empty). This error typically occurs in the context of employee master data management, particularly when trying to create or update employee records.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Dates: The most common cause of this error is that either the start date or the end date for the validity period of the employee record is not filled in. This could happen if the user did not enter these dates when creating or updating the employee record.
  Incorrect Data Entry: There may have been a mistake in data entry where the dates were not entered correctly or were inadvertently left blank.
  System Configuration: In some cases, the system configuration may require these dates to be filled in for certain actions, and if they are not, the error will be triggered.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Input Fields: Go back to the transaction or screen where you are entering the employee data and ensure that both the start date and end date fields are filled in correctly. If the end date is not applicable, it can often be set to a far future date or left blank depending on the business rules.
  Validation Rules: Review any validation rules or configurations in the system that may require these fields to be populated. Ensure that the data entry complies with these rules.
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the required fields, consult the relevant SAP documentation or user guides for the specific module you are working with (e.g., SAP HCM).
  Error Handling: If you are using a custom program or interface to input data, ensure that the logic correctly handles the assignment of these dates and does not leave them blank.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context, you may be using transaction codes like PA30 (Maintain HR Master Data) or PA40 (Personnel Actions) when encountering this error.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance on handling employee data validity periods.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to create or modify employee records, as sometimes authorization issues can lead to incomplete data entry.
  
  If the problem persists after checking these areas, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in SAP HCM for further assistance.