How To Fix W8146 - & is not a valid entry

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: W8 - Workflow: Expressions, data flow

• Message number: 146

• Message text: & is not a valid entry

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W8146 - & is not a valid entry ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  W8146 & is not a valid entry
  
  Cause:
  The error message W8146 typically occurs when a user inputs a value that is not recognized or valid in a particular SAP field. The placeholder "&" in the message is replaced by the actual invalid entry the user has made.
  This usually happens in selection screens, input fields, or when entering master data where the system expects a value from a predefined list or range (such as a valid material number, vendor, customer, cost center, etc.). If the entered value does not exist in the corresponding table or is not allowed by the validation logic, SAP throws this error.
  
  Common Scenarios:
  
  Entering a non-existent material number in a transaction.
  Inputting an invalid cost center or profit center.
  Providing a wrong vendor or customer number.
  Typing a value that does not conform to the allowed format or domain.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check the Input Value:
  
  Verify that the value you entered is correct.
  Ensure there are no typos or extra spaces.
  Confirm that the value exists in the master data or relevant table.
  
  
  
  Use Search Help (F4 Help):
  
  Use the F4 help to select a valid entry from the list provided by SAP.
  This helps avoid manual entry errors.
  
  
  
  Check Master Data:
  
  If the value should exist but does not, check if the master data has been created or maintained properly.
  For example, if a material number is invalid, check if the material master record exists.
  
  
  
  Check Authorizations:
  
  Sometimes, the user may not have authorization to view or use certain entries, causing the system to treat them as invalid.
  Verify user roles and authorizations.
  
  
  
  Consult Configuration:
  
  In some cases, the validation logic or domain restrictions in configuration might cause valid entries to be rejected.
  Check customizing settings or validation rules if you are a functional consultant.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Message Class: W8 (Messages related to master data validation)
  Transaction Codes: The error can appear in various transactions depending on the field (e.g., MM01, ME21N, FB50, etc.)
  SAP Notes: Search SAP Service Marketplace or SAP ONE Support Launchpad for notes related to message W8146 for specific modules or scenarios.
  Debugging: If you have developer access, you can debug the program to see where the validation fails.
  
  
  Summary:
  
  Cause: Invalid or non-existent entry in a field.
  Solution: Verify and correct the input, use F4 help, check master data and authorizations.
  Additional: Check configuration and SAP notes if the problem persists.
  
  
  If you provide the exact transaction or field where this error occurs, I can give more tailored advice.