How To Fix /SRMSMC/SUPPLIER016 - The foundation date has to be in the past

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SRMSMC/SUPPLIER -

• Message number: 016

• Message text: The foundation date has to be in the past

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SRMSMC/SUPPLIER016 - The foundation date has to be in the past ?

  The SAP error message /SRMSMC/SUPPLIER016 indicates that the foundation date you are trying to enter for a supplier or vendor is set in the future, which is not allowed. This error typically occurs in the Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) module when creating or updating supplier data.
  Cause:
  
  The foundation date is a critical piece of information that indicates when a supplier was established or became operational. SAP requires this date to be in the past to ensure that the supplier has a valid history and is recognized as an established entity.
  If the date entered is today or any date in the future, the system will trigger this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check the Foundation Date: Review the date you are trying to enter. Ensure that it is a valid date that is earlier than the current date.
  Correct the Date: If the date is incorrect, update it to a valid past date. This could be the date the supplier was founded or became operational.
  Validation: After correcting the date, try saving the supplier data again to see if the error persists.
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about what date to enter, consult your organization's supplier management policies or documentation for guidance on what constitutes an acceptable foundation date.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes or documentation that might provide additional context or updates regarding this error message.
  User Permissions: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to make changes to supplier data, as restrictions might also lead to issues.
  System Configuration: If the problem persists, it may be worth checking with your SAP Basis or technical team to ensure that there are no underlying configuration issues affecting the supplier data entry process.
  
  If you continue to experience issues after following these steps, consider reaching out to your SAP support team for further assistance.