How To Fix FH221 - Cost element category must not be changed for primary cost elements

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FH - General ledger module messages

• Message number: 221

• Message text: Cost element category must not be changed for primary cost elements

What causes this issue?

You have tried to change the cost element category for a primary cost
element although postings already exist for it. A warning message is
displayed because this may lead to inconsistencies.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

If you are sure that this will not lead to inconsistencies, you can save
the data.
INCLUDE 'CUSTOMIZED_MESSAGE_INFO' OBJECT DOKU ID TX
Deactivating the message (category "-") suppresses the check itself,
which also improves performance.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message FH221 - Cost element category must not be changed for primary cost elements ?

  The SAP error message FH221 indicates that there is an attempt to change the cost element category for a primary cost element, which is not allowed in the SAP system. Primary cost elements are linked to the general ledger accounts and are used to record costs directly in financial accounting. Changing their category can disrupt the integrity of financial reporting and accounting processes.
  Cause:
  The error occurs when:
  
  A user attempts to change the cost element category of a primary cost element in the SAP system.
  The cost element category is being modified in a way that is not permitted by the system's configuration.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, consider the following steps:
  
  
  Do Not Change the Category: Since the error indicates that the cost element category for primary cost elements cannot be changed, the simplest solution is to avoid making this change.
  
  
  Create a New Cost Element: If a different cost element category is required, you can create a new primary cost element with the desired category instead of modifying an existing one.
  
  
  Review Configuration: If you believe that the change is necessary, review the configuration settings in the SAP system. Consult with your SAP FI (Financial Accounting) consultant or system administrator to understand the implications of changing cost element categories.
  
  
  Check Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for more information on cost element categories and their implications in financial accounting.
  
  
  User Authorization: Ensure that the user attempting to make the change has the appropriate authorizations. Sometimes, restrictions may be in place based on user roles.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Cost Element Categories: In SAP, cost element categories define how costs are treated in the system. Primary cost elements are linked to G/L accounts and are used for direct postings.
  Transaction Codes: The error may arise during transactions involving cost element maintenance, such as using transaction codes like KA01 (Create Primary Cost Element) or KA02 (Change Primary Cost Element).
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional insights or updates regarding this error message.
  
  If the issue persists or if you need further assistance, consider reaching out to SAP support or your internal SAP support team for more tailored guidance.