How To Fix CP556 - The cost element is not defined in the system

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CP - Task list messages: Core data

• Message number: 556

• Message text: The cost element is not defined in the system

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.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CP556 - The cost element is not defined in the system ?

  The SAP error message CP556, which states "The cost element is not defined in the system," typically occurs when you are trying to post costs or perform a transaction that involves a cost element that has not been properly defined or configured in the SAP system. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, potential solutions, and related information:
  Cause:
  
  Missing Cost Element: The cost element you are trying to use does not exist in the system. This could be due to a typo or because it has not been created.
  Incorrect Configuration: The cost element may exist but is not configured correctly for the specific purpose you are trying to use it for (e.g., it may not be assigned to the correct controlling area).
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access or use the cost element.
  Inactive Cost Element: The cost element might be inactive or marked for deletion in the system.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Cost Element Definition:
  
  Go to transaction code KA03 (Display Cost Element) and check if the cost element exists.
  If it does not exist, you will need to create it using transaction code KA01 (Create Cost Element).
  
  
  
  Verify Configuration:
  
  Ensure that the cost element is assigned to the correct controlling area. You can check this in the cost element master data.
  Make sure that the cost element is set up for the correct type (primary or secondary) and is configured for the intended use (e.g., for internal orders, cost centers, etc.).
  
  
  
  Check Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to access and use the cost element. This may involve checking user roles and profiles.
  
  
  
  Activate Cost Element:
  
  If the cost element is inactive, you may need to activate it or remove any flags that prevent its use.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for any specific configurations or settings that may be required for your organization.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Cost Element Types: Understand the difference between primary and secondary cost elements, as this can affect how they are used in various transactions.
  Controlling Area: Ensure that the cost element is assigned to the correct controlling area, as this is crucial for proper cost accounting.
  Transaction Codes:
  
  KA01: Create Cost Element
  KA02: Change Cost Element
  KA03: Display Cost Element
  KAH1: Create Cost Element Group
  KAH2: Change Cost Element Group
  KAH3: Display Cost Element Group
  
  
  
  If the issue persists after checking these areas, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in controlling (CO) to further investigate the problem.