How To Fix F5581 - Enter a posting key first of all

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: F5 - Document Editing

• Message number: 581

• Message text: Enter a posting key first of all

What causes this issue?

The entry facility for the account number is initiated via matchcode
search. Separate matchcodes exist for every account type (customers,
vendors, G/L accounts, fixed assets). The matchcodes which are suitable
can in this case only be determined by means of the posting key.

System Response

The entry facility can only be supplied after entering the posting key.

How to fix this error?

Enter the required posting key before you use the possible entries
pushbutton for the account number.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message F5581 - Enter a posting key first of all ?

  The SAP error message F5581 "Enter a posting key first of all" typically occurs in the context of financial transactions, particularly when you are trying to enter a document in the SAP system without specifying a posting key. The posting key is a crucial element in SAP's financial accounting module, as it determines the type of transaction being recorded (e.g., debit or credit) and the account type involved.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Posting Key: The most common cause of this error is that the user has not entered a posting key in the relevant field before attempting to process the transaction.
  Incorrect Screen Navigation: Sometimes, users may navigate to the transaction screen without properly following the required steps, leading to missing fields.
  User Authorization Issues: In some cases, the user may not have the necessary authorizations to perform the transaction, which can lead to incomplete data entry.
  
  Solution:
  
  Enter a Posting Key: The immediate solution is to ensure that you enter a valid posting key in the designated field. Posting keys are usually predefined in the system and can be found in the SAP documentation or by consulting with your finance team.
  Check Transaction Steps: Make sure you are following the correct steps for the transaction you are trying to perform. Review the transaction guide or documentation to ensure all required fields are filled out correctly.
  User Training: If this error occurs frequently, consider providing additional training for users on how to properly enter financial transactions in SAP.
  Consult with IT Support: If the issue persists, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or IT department to check for any system configuration issues or user authorization problems.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Posting Keys: Posting keys are two-digit codes that define the type of transaction. Common posting keys include:
  
  40: Debit for customer accounts
  50: Credit for customer accounts
  01: Debit for general ledger accounts
  11: Credit for general ledger accounts
  
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes (e.g., FB50 for general ledger posting) to ensure you are using the correct screens.
  SAP Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed information on financial transactions and posting keys.
  
  By ensuring that a posting key is entered and following the correct procedures, you should be able to resolve the F5581 error effectively.