How To Fix 5D521 - Specify either contribution scale OR contribution

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 5D - Error Messages for German Infotype Module Pools

• Message number: 521

• Message text: Specify either contribution scale OR contribution

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 5D521 - Specify either contribution scale OR contribution ?

  The SAP error message 5D521 ("Specify either contribution scale OR contribution") typically occurs in the context of SAP's Human Capital Management (HCM) module, particularly when dealing with payroll or benefits administration. This error indicates that the system requires either a contribution scale or a specific contribution amount to be defined, but neither has been provided.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Data: The error arises when a payroll or benefits configuration is incomplete. Specifically, the system expects either a contribution scale (a predefined range of contributions based on certain criteria) or a specific contribution amount to be specified for a particular employee or group of employees.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues in the configuration of the payroll schema or the benefits plan that do not align with the expected input.
  Incorrect Master Data: Employee master data may be missing necessary information related to contributions or scales.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Navigate to the relevant configuration settings in the SAP system (e.g., transaction codes like SPRO for customizing).
  Ensure that either a contribution scale or a specific contribution amount is defined for the relevant payroll or benefits plan.
  
  
  
  Review Employee Master Data:
  
  Check the employee master data to ensure that all necessary fields related to contributions are filled out correctly.
  Ensure that the employee is assigned to the correct payroll area and that the relevant infotypes (like IT0014 for recurring payments/deductions) are correctly maintained.
  
  
  
  Define Contribution Scale:
  
  If using a contribution scale, ensure that it is properly defined in the system. This may involve setting up the scale in the relevant configuration area.
  
  
  
  Specify Contribution:
  
  If a specific contribution is required, ensure that it is entered in the appropriate infotype or configuration setting.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making the necessary adjustments, run a test payroll or benefits calculation to ensure that the error does not reoccur.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed guidance on configuring payroll and benefits plans.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as:
  
  SPRO: Customizing settings
  PA30: Maintain HR Master Data
  PC00_MXX_CALC: Payroll calculation
  
  
  Support: If the issue persists after checking configurations and data, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error message 5D521 in your SAP system.