How To Fix BE098 - Cost element & is not a primary cost element

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BE - General document entry

• Message number: 098

• Message text: Cost element & is not a primary cost element

What causes this issue?

You have entered a <GL:cost element>cost element</>which is not
assigned to cost element type 01 (primary cost element).

System Response

INCLUDE NA_ALLG_NOVERARBEITUNG OBJECT DOKU ID TX LANGUAGE E

How to fix this error?

Check your primary cost element.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BE098 - Cost element & is not a primary cost element ?

  The SAP error message BE098 indicates that the cost element specified is not a primary cost element. This error typically occurs when you are trying to post costs to a cost element that is defined as a secondary cost element in the system. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, solution, and related information for this error:
  Cause:
  
  Cost Element Type: In SAP, cost elements are categorized into primary and secondary cost elements. Primary cost elements are used to post costs directly to financial accounting and controlling, while secondary cost elements are used for internal cost allocations and do not have a direct link to financial accounting.
  Incorrect Cost Element: The cost element you are trying to use in your transaction is defined as a secondary cost element in the system, which cannot be used for direct postings.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Cost Element Configuration:
  
  Go to the transaction code KA03 (Display Cost Element) and enter the cost element number to check its type.
  Ensure that the cost element you are trying to use is a primary cost element. If it is not, you will need to use a different cost element that is defined as primary.
  
  
  
  Use a Primary Cost Element:
  
  If you need to post costs, ensure that you are using a primary cost element that is appropriate for the type of transaction you are performing.
  
  
  
  Create a New Primary Cost Element:
  
  If necessary, you can create a new primary cost element using transaction code KA01 (Create Cost Element). Make sure to define it correctly to meet your business requirements.
  
  
  
  Review Posting Logic:
  
  If you are using a custom program or a specific transaction, review the logic to ensure that it is selecting the correct cost element type for the posting.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Cost Element Types:
  
  Primary Cost Elements: These are linked to accounts in the general ledger and are used for direct postings (e.g., expenses, revenues).
  Secondary Cost Elements: These are used for internal allocations and do not have a direct link to the general ledger (e.g., internal orders, cost centers).
  
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  KA01: Create Cost Element
  KA02: Change Cost Element
  KA03: Display Cost Element
  KAH1: Create Primary Cost Element
  KAH2: Change Primary Cost Element
  KAH3: Display Primary Cost Element
  
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed information on cost element accounting and configuration.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the BE098 error and ensure that you are using the correct cost elements for your postings in SAP.