> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://responsive-media.gitbook.io/advanced-free-shipping/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://responsive-media.gitbook.io/advanced-free-shipping/troubleshooting/error-messages.md).

# Error Messages

## Common Error Messages

When saving a discount, you might see error messages from Shopify. Here's what they mean and how to fix them.

***

## "Active period overlaps with too many other automatic discounts"

**What it means**: You have too many automatic discounts active at the same time.

**Why it happens**: Shopify limits the number of overlapping automatic discounts to prevent performance issues.

**How to fix**:

1. Review your active automatic discounts
2. Set end dates on old/unused discounts
3. Delete discounts you no longer need
4. Stagger discount active dates to reduce overlap

{% hint style="info" %}
Use discount codes instead of automatic discounts if you need many simultaneous promotions.
{% endhint %}

***

## "The discount must apply to at least one purchase type"

**What it means**: You unchecked both "One-time purchase" and "Subscription" in Purchase Type settings.

**How to fix**:

1. Scroll to Purchase Type section
2. Check at least one option:
   * One-time purchase
   * Subscription
   * Or both
3. Save

***

## "A discount with this code or title already exists"

**What it means**: Another discount already uses this code or title.

**How to fix**:

1. Choose a different discount code or title
2. Or edit/delete the existing discount with that name
3. Save with the new name

{% hint style="info" %}
Discount codes and titles must be unique across your store.
{% endhint %}

***

## "The end date must be after the start date"

**What it means**: Your end date is before your start date.

**How to fix**:

1. Check your Active dates section
2. Ensure end date is after start date
3. Or remove one of the dates
4. Save

***

## "You've reached the maximum number of active app discounts"

**What it means**: You've hit Shopify's limit for active app-based discounts.

**How to fix**:

1. Deactivate unused discounts (set end date to past)
2. Delete old discounts you no longer need
3. Or upgrade your Shopify plan (limits vary by plan)

{% hint style="info" %}
Keep expired seasonal discounts but set end dates - they don't count against your limit.
{% endhint %}

***

## "Recurring payment limits can only be set for discounts that apply to subscriptions"

**What it means**: You set a recurring cycle limit but the discount doesn't apply to subscriptions.

**How to fix**:

1. Go to Purchase Type settings
2. Check "Subscription" or "Both"
3. Or remove the recurring cycle limit
4. Save

***

## "Something went wrong on Shopify's end"

**What it means**: Temporary Shopify API issue.

**How to fix**:

1. Wait a moment
2. Try saving again
3. If it persists, check Shopify Status page
4. Contact support if issue continues

***

## Validation Errors

### "Select an operator for the condition"

**Fix**: Choose an operator (is at least, equals, etc.) for each condition.

### "Enter a value for the condition"

**Fix**: Fill in the value field for conditions that require a number or text.

### "Select at least one \[product/collection/country/etc.]"

**Fix**: Use the picker to select at least one item for the condition.

### "Enter at least one customer tag"

**Fix**: Type a tag name and press Enter to add it.

***

## Preventing Errors

{% hint style="info" %}
**Save frequently**: Save your discount as you build it to catch errors early.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Use Test Mode**: Test discounts before going live to catch issues.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Review before saving**: Double-check all fields before clicking Save.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Keep it simple**: Start with simple discounts, add complexity gradually.
{% endhint %}

***

## Still Seeing Errors?

* [**Common Issues**](/advanced-free-shipping/troubleshooting/common-issues.md) - Fix common problems
* [**Testing Guide**](/advanced-free-shipping/troubleshooting/testing-guide.md) - Test your discounts
* [**Contact Support**](mailto:help@responsivemedia.com.au) - Get help from our team


---

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