How To Fix GM071 - To allocate &/&, you cannot use cost element &

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GM - Combination manager

• Message number: 071

• Message text: To allocate &/&, you cannot use cost element &

What causes this issue?

You want to plan the activity input from sender cost center/activity
type &V1&/&V2& on a receiver.
However, only cost element &V3& is supported for the allocation of
&V1&/&V2&.

System Response

You cannot plan the combination &V1&/&V2& with cost element &V4&.

How to fix this error?

Enter the value &V3& instead of &V4& for the cost element.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GM071 - To allocate &/&, you cannot use cost element & ?

  The SAP error message GM071 indicates that there is an issue with the allocation of costs in the context of the General Ledger (G/L) accounting or the Controlling (CO) module. Specifically, it suggests that the cost element being used for the allocation is not valid for the operation you are trying to perform.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Cost Element: The cost element you are trying to use for the allocation is not defined as a valid cost element for the specific allocation type or process.
  Cost Element Category: The cost element may belong to a category that does not allow for the type of allocation you are attempting (e.g., primary vs. secondary cost elements).
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the system that restrict the use of certain cost elements for specific allocation processes.
  Master Data Issues: The cost element may not be properly set up in the system, or it may be inactive.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Cost Element Configuration:
  
  Go to the transaction code KA03 (Display Cost Element) and check the details of the cost element in question.
  Ensure that the cost element is active and correctly configured for the type of allocation you are trying to perform.
  
  
  
  Review Allocation Process:
  
  Verify that you are using the correct allocation method for the cost element. For example, if you are trying to allocate costs to a cost center, ensure that the cost element is allowed for that type of allocation.
  
  
  
  Adjust Master Data:
  
  If the cost element is inactive or incorrectly set up, you may need to activate it or adjust its settings. This can be done in the transaction code KA01 (Create Cost Element) or KA02 (Change Cost Element).
  
  
  
  Consult Configuration Settings:
  
  If you have access to the configuration settings, check the settings related to cost element usage in the controlling area. This can be done in the SPRO transaction under the controlling module.
  
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support:
  
  If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting SAP Notes for any known issues related to this error message.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Cost Element Types: Understand the difference between primary and secondary cost elements, as this can affect how they are used in allocations.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as KSV5 (Actual Distribution) or KSV6 (Assessment) to see how allocations are processed.
  SAP Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help files related to cost accounting and allocations for more detailed guidance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the GM071 error and implement a solution to resolve it.