How To Fix GA853 - You cannot post using cost element "space"

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GA - Allocations

• Message number: 853

• Message text: You cannot post using cost element "space"

What causes this issue?

The cycle tried to generate a line item with the cost element "space".
Since this would lead to incorrect data, the system interrupts the run
of this cycle.

System Response

No data is updated on the database, because the error (entering a blank
cost element) indicates a cycle that has been incorrectly maintained.

How to fix this error?

There are three ways in which you might have generated a posting with
space as cost element within a distribution cycle.
1. You used a cost element group that explicitly contains the value
"space".
2. You entered a "*" as the FROM value for the cost element. Although
this value is not displayed, it still exists internally.
3. You (a) changed the Customizing settings for distribution in such a
way that the cost element is no longer a required field for the sender
and (b) you also do not enter a cost element. If this is so, the system
reads all cost elements for the sender, but these cost elements are
updated under the cost element "*".
To solve this problem, you need to enter a cost element other than "*"
or "space" in the segment definition.

Procedure for System Administrators

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GA853 - You cannot post using cost element "space" ?

  The SAP error message GA853, which states "You cannot post using cost element 'space'," typically occurs when there is an issue with the cost element being used in a financial transaction. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, potential solutions, and related information:
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Cost Element: The error indicates that the cost element being referenced is either not defined or is not valid for the type of posting you are trying to perform. The term "space" suggests that the system is interpreting the cost element as empty or not properly specified.
  Cost Element Configuration: The cost element may not be configured correctly in the system. It could be inactive, or it may not be assigned to the appropriate controlling area.
  Posting Type: The type of posting you are attempting (e.g., internal order, cost center, etc.) may not be compatible with the cost element being used.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Cost Element: Verify that the cost element you are trying to use is correctly defined in the system. You can do this by navigating to the cost element master data in SAP (Transaction Code: KA03).
  Ensure Proper Assignment: Make sure that the cost element is assigned to the correct controlling area and is active. If it is inactive, you may need to activate it or use a different cost element.
  Review Posting Document: Check the document you are trying to post. Ensure that the cost element field is populated correctly and that there are no leading or trailing spaces in the cost element field.
  Use Valid Cost Element: If the cost element is indeed invalid, replace it with a valid cost element that is appropriate for the transaction you are trying to post.
  Consult Configuration: If you have access, review the configuration settings for cost elements in the controlling module (CO) to ensure everything is set up correctly.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as KA01 (Create Cost Element), KA02 (Change Cost Element), and KA03 (Display Cost Element).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. Sometimes, specific versions of SAP may have bugs that are documented in SAP Notes.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to post using the cost element in question. Lack of authorization can sometimes lead to unexpected errors.
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help files related to cost accounting and cost elements for more detailed guidance.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in the controlling module.