How To Fix GM041 - Cost element & is not primary

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GM - Combination manager

• Message number: 041

• Message text: Cost element & is not primary

What causes this issue?

You want to process cost element &V1&. However, you can only process
primary cost or revenue elements for the activities
periodic transfer
actual/planned distribution
primary cost/revenue planning

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?

The system does not recognize the cost element type for this cost
element. Please check the cost element type for cost element &V1&.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GM041 - Cost element & is not primary ?

  The SAP error message GM041, which states "Cost element & is not primary," typically occurs in the context of the SAP Controlling (CO) module, particularly when dealing with cost elements in the context of budget management or internal orders. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, potential solutions, and related information:
  Cause:
  
  
  Cost Element Type: The error indicates that the cost element you are trying to use is not a primary cost element. In SAP, cost elements are classified into two main types:
  
  Primary Cost Elements: These are used to represent costs that are directly posted to the financial accounting (FI) and controlling (CO) modules. They are linked to accounts in the general ledger.
  Secondary Cost Elements: These are used for internal cost allocations and do not have a direct link to the general ledger.
  
  
  
  Incorrect Configuration: The cost element may have been incorrectly configured in the system, or you may be trying to use a secondary cost element where a primary cost element is required.
  
  
  Transaction Context: The error may arise in specific transactions where only primary cost elements are allowed, such as budget postings or certain types of cost allocations.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Cost Element Type: Verify the type of cost element you are using. You can do this by navigating to the cost element master data in SAP:
  
  Use transaction code KA03 to display the cost element.
  Check if it is marked as a primary cost element.
  
  
  
  Use a Primary Cost Element: If you are using a secondary cost element, replace it with a primary cost element that is appropriate for the transaction you are trying to execute.
  
  
  Create a New Primary Cost Element: If necessary, you can create a new primary cost element using transaction code KA01. Ensure that it is properly configured and linked to the appropriate general ledger account.
  
  
  Review Configuration: If you believe the cost element should be primary but is not configured as such, review the configuration settings in the controlling area to ensure that the cost element is set up correctly.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or your organization's internal guidelines for managing cost elements to ensure compliance with best practices.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Cost Element Accounting: Understanding the difference between primary and secondary cost elements is crucial for effective cost management in SAP.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as:
  
  KA01: Create Primary Cost Element
  KA02: Change Primary Cost Element
  KA03: Display Cost Element
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to this error message.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to create or modify cost elements in the system.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the GM041 error and ensure that you are using the correct cost elements in your SAP transactions.