How To Fix GA839 - Enter either an assessment cost element or "by cost element"

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GA - Allocations

• Message number: 839

• Message text: Enter either an assessment cost element or "by cost element"

What causes this issue?

You have entered an assessment cost element AND selected the "By cost
element" function.

System Response

Processing cannot be continued, as the system must either credit under
an assessment cost element or execute a distribution by cost element.

How to fix this error?

Either enter an assessment cost element OR select "By cost element".

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GA839 - Enter either an assessment cost element or "by cost element" ?

  The SAP error message GA839 indicates that there is an issue with the configuration of cost elements in the context of an assessment in the Controlling (CO) module. This error typically arises when you are trying to perform an assessment and the system requires you to specify either an assessment cost element or to select the "by cost element" option, but neither has been provided.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Assessment Cost Element: The assessment cost element is not specified in the configuration or during the execution of the assessment.
  Incorrect Configuration: The settings in the assessment cycle may not be properly configured to include the necessary cost elements.
  Selection Criteria: The selection criteria for the assessment may not be set correctly, leading to the system not being able to identify the required cost elements.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the GA839 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Assessment Cycle Configuration:
  
  Go to the transaction code KSU5 (for assessment cycles).
  Review the configuration of the assessment cycle to ensure that an assessment cost element is defined.
  Ensure that the "by cost element" option is selected if you intend to use it.
  
  
  
  Define Assessment Cost Element:
  
  If you do not have an assessment cost element defined, you can create one using transaction code KA01 (Create Cost Element).
  Make sure that the cost element is set up correctly and is active.
  
  
  
  Review the Execution Parameters:
  
  When executing the assessment (using transaction code KSU1 or KSU2), ensure that you are providing the necessary parameters, including the assessment cost element or selecting the "by cost element" option.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help files related to assessment cycles and cost elements for additional guidance on proper configuration.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making the necessary changes, test the assessment process again to ensure that the error is resolved.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Cost Elements: In SAP, cost elements are used to categorize costs and revenues. They can be primary (directly linked to financial accounting) or secondary (used for internal controlling purposes).
  Assessment Cycle: An assessment cycle is a method in SAP CO to allocate costs from one cost center to another based on certain criteria.
  Transaction Codes:
  
  KSU5: Display/Change Assessment Cycle
  KA01: Create Cost Element
  KSU1: Execute Assessment
  KSU2: Change Assessment
  
  
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a consultant who specializes in SAP Controlling for further assistance.