How To Fix WC157 - End of period already in the past

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WC - POS interface - outbound and Tickets & Additionals

• Message number: 157

• Message text: End of period already in the past

What causes this issue?

A repetition of outbound processing only makes sense if
the data is to be prepared for a validity
period which includes today's date or which starts in the future.
In this case, however, data would be prepared for a validity
period which is already in the past.

System Response

POS outbound processing cannot be repeated.

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?

Nevertheless, if you still need the data, carry out an
initialization or a direct request for store &V1&.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WC157 - End of period already in the past ?

  The SAP error message WC157 "End of period already in the past" typically occurs in the context of production planning or controlling when you attempt to perform an action (like posting a goods movement, closing a period, or running a report) for a period that has already been closed in the system. This is a safeguard to prevent changes to historical data that could affect financial reporting and planning.
  Cause:
  
  Closed Period: The most common cause is that the period you are trying to work with has already been closed in the system. This could be a month-end or year-end closing.
  Configuration Settings: The settings in the controlling area or company code may restrict postings to closed periods.
  User Authorization: The user may not have the necessary authorization to post in the specified period.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Period Status: Verify the status of the period you are trying to post to. You can do this by checking the period closing settings in the relevant modules (e.g., FI, CO).
  Open the Period: If you need to make a posting in a closed period, you may need to open the period again. This typically requires authorization and should be done with caution, as it can affect financial reporting.
  
  To open a period, navigate to the transaction code OB52 (for financial accounting) or the relevant transaction for controlling periods, and adjust the period settings.
  
  
  Consult with Finance Team: If you are unsure about opening a closed period, consult with your finance or controlling team to understand the implications and get the necessary approvals.
  Check User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the appropriate authorizations to perform actions in the specified period. If not, contact your SAP security team to request the necessary permissions.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as:
  
  OB52: For managing posting periods in Financial Accounting.
  KAH1/KAH2: For controlling area settings.
  
  
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help files related to period closing and posting periods for more detailed guidance.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address specific issues or provide additional solutions related to this error message.
  
  Best Practices:
  
  Regularly review and manage your posting periods to avoid issues with closed periods.
  Communicate with your team about the timing of period closings to ensure that all necessary postings are completed before the period is closed.
  Maintain proper documentation and approvals for any changes made to period settings to ensure compliance and traceability. 
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the WC157 error and understand the implications of working with closed periods in SAP.