How To Fix GK274 - The item &1 may not be defined recursively

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GK - Messages for SAP Consolidation

• Message number: 274

• Message text: The item &1 may not be defined recursively

What causes this issue?

You are trying to create item &V1& recursively in the FS item
hierarchy. The system does not allow this. If it did,
the item would contain itself within the FS item hierarchies.
This error could occur an item hierarchy other than the one
in which you are currently trying to insert an item.

System Response

Error message

How to fix this error?

Please correct your entry.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GK274 - The item &1 may not be defined recursively ?

  The SAP error message GK274 ("The item &1 may not be defined recursively") typically occurs in the context of the SAP Controlling (CO) module, particularly when dealing with cost elements or cost centers. This error indicates that there is an attempt to define a cost item (like a cost element or cost center) in a way that creates a recursive relationship, which is not allowed in SAP.
  Cause:
  The error is caused by one of the following scenarios:
  
  Recursive Definition: You are trying to define a cost item (e.g., a cost center or cost element) that references itself directly or indirectly. For example, if a cost center is set up to allocate costs to itself, it creates a loop that SAP cannot process.
  Incorrect Configuration: There may be an incorrect configuration in the cost element or cost center hierarchy that leads to a recursive relationship.
  Data Entry Error: A mistake in data entry where the same item is mistakenly referenced multiple times in a way that creates recursion.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the GK274 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Review Definitions: Check the definition of the cost item that is causing the error. Ensure that it does not reference itself or create a circular reference with other items.
  
  
  Check Hierarchies: If the item is part of a hierarchy (like a cost center hierarchy), review the hierarchy structure to ensure that there are no circular references.
  
  
  Correct Configuration: If you find any recursive definitions, correct them by changing the configuration to ensure that each cost item points to valid, non-recursive items.
  
  
  Data Validation: Validate the data entries for the cost items to ensure that they are correctly set up without any unintended references.
  
  
  Testing: After making changes, test the configuration to ensure that the error does not reoccur.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like KS01 (Create Cost Center), KS02 (Change Cost Center), or KA01 (Create Cost Element) to review and modify the relevant items.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for detailed guidelines on setting up cost elements and cost centers to avoid recursive definitions.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address specific issues related to this error message or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.