How To Fix UGWB038 - Starting period is invalid

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: UGWB - Messages for Workbench

• Message number: 038

• Message text: Starting period is invalid

What causes this issue?

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

System Response

How to fix this error?

Enter a valid period for the start of the validity timeframe.
However, you can leave the starting year and starting period blank if
you only want to specify the end of the validity timeframe (example:
starting year 0000/starting period 000, ending year 2004/ending period
012).

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message UGWB038 - Starting period is invalid ?

  The SAP error message UGWB038, which states "Starting period is invalid," typically occurs in the context of financial or controlling modules when a user attempts to execute a report or transaction that requires a valid starting period for data processing. This error can arise in various scenarios, such as during the execution of financial reports, budget planning, or when trying to post transactions.
  Causes:
  
  Invalid Period: The specified starting period does not exist in the system. This could be due to a typo or an incorrect period being selected.
  Closed Period: The period may be closed for posting in the system, meaning that no transactions can be processed for that period.
  Fiscal Year Variant Issues: The fiscal year variant may not be correctly configured, leading to discrepancies in the available periods.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues with the configuration of the controlling area or the company code that affect the validity of periods.
  User Authorization: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the specified period.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check the Period: Verify that the starting period you are trying to use is valid. Ensure that it exists in the system and is not a typo.
  Review Period Status: Check if the period is open for posting. You can do this by navigating to the relevant transaction (e.g., transaction code OB52 for controlling periods) and confirming the status of the period.
  Fiscal Year Variant: Ensure that the fiscal year variant is correctly set up and that the periods align with your company's financial calendar.
  Configuration Review: If you have access, review the configuration settings for the controlling area or company code to ensure that they are set up correctly.
  User Authorization: Confirm that you have the necessary authorizations to access the specified period. If not, contact your SAP security administrator to request the appropriate access.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like OB52 (to check and maintain posting periods) or OAAQ (to check asset accounting periods) depending on the context of the error.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for more detailed information on fiscal year variants and period management.
  
  If the issue persists after checking these aspects, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who can provide more tailored assistance based on your specific system configuration and business processes.