How To Fix FH056 - Account creation not possible since a cost element already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FH - General ledger module messages

• Message number: 056

• Message text: Account creation not possible since a cost element already exists

What causes this issue?

You are trying to create a G/L account for which a secondary cost
element has probably already been created. If this is the case, it is
not possible to create a G/L account for the same number.

System Response

The program cannot create a G/L account with this number.

How to fix this error?

Check the G/L account number used, and change it if necessary.
If the G/L account number is correct, check whether a cost element has
already been created with the same number and check which cost element
category has been used. You may need to use new numbers here. If the
existing cost element is a primary cost element type, then the status of
the relevant tables is incorrect because primary cost elements can only
be created with G/L accounts that already exist.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message FH056 - Account creation not possible since a cost element already exists ?

  The SAP error message FH056 ("Account creation not possible since a cost element already exists") typically occurs when you attempt to create a new account in the Financial Accounting (FI) module, but the system detects that a cost element with the same account number already exists in the Controlling (CO) module. This situation arises because, in SAP, certain account types are linked to cost elements, and each cost element must be unique.
  Cause:
  
  Existing Cost Element: The account number you are trying to create is already associated with an existing cost element in the system.
  Account Type: The account you are trying to create is of a type that is linked to cost elements (e.g., expense or revenue accounts).
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the system that prevent the creation of accounts that conflict with existing cost elements.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Cost Elements: 
  
  Use transaction code KA03 (Display Cost Element) to check if a cost element with the same account number already exists.
  If it does, you may need to use that existing cost element instead of creating a new account.
  
  
  
  Use a Different Account Number: 
  
  If you need to create a new account, consider using a different account number that does not conflict with existing cost elements.
  
  
  
  Review Account Type: 
  
  Ensure that the account type you are trying to create is appropriate for your needs. If it is meant to be a cost element, you may need to create it as a cost element instead.
  
  
  
  Consult with Configuration Team: 
  
  If you believe there is a configuration issue, consult with your SAP configuration team to review the settings related to account and cost element creation.
  
  
  
  Documentation and Guidelines: 
  
  Refer to your organization's documentation or guidelines regarding account and cost element creation to ensure compliance with internal processes.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  KA01: Create Cost Element
  KA02: Change Cost Element
  KA03: Display Cost Element
  FS00: Create/Change/Display G/L Account
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this issue or provide additional guidance.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to create accounts and cost elements in the system.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the FH056 error and successfully manage your account and cost element creation in SAP.