How To Fix K4004 - Cost element & is not from category 21 or not available

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: K4 - Order settlement configuration tables

• Message number: 004

• Message text: Cost element & is not from category 21 or not available

What causes this issue?

You have assigned a settlement cost element that is not type 21
(internal settlement) to an account assignment category.

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?

Use the F4 help to select a settlement cost element of type "21".
or
Create cost element &V1&
INCLUDE 'CUSTOMIZED_MESSAGE_INFO' OBJECT DOKU ID TX

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message K4004 - Cost element & is not from category 21 or not available ?

  The SAP error message K4004 indicates that the cost element you are trying to use is either not of the correct category (specifically, it should be of category 21) or it is not available in the system. This error typically occurs in the context of controlling (CO) when you are trying to post costs or perform some operations related to cost elements.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Cost Element Category: The cost element you are trying to use is not categorized as a primary cost element (category 21). Primary cost elements are used to post costs directly to the financial accounting and controlling modules.
  Cost Element Not Defined: The cost element may not be defined in the system or may not be active.
  Cost Element Not Available for Posting: The cost element might be restricted or not available for the specific transaction you are trying to perform.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Cost Element Category:
  
  Go to the transaction code KA03 (Display Cost Element) and enter the cost element in question.
  Verify that the cost element is of category 21. If it is not, you may need to use a different cost element that is categorized correctly.
  
  
  
  Define or Activate Cost Element:
  
  If the cost element is not defined, you can create it using transaction code KA01 (Create Cost Element).
  Ensure that the cost element is active and available for the relevant controlling area.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration:
  
  Check the configuration settings in the controlling module to ensure that the cost element is set up correctly for the intended use.
  Ensure that the cost element is assigned to the correct cost center or internal order if applicable.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for any specific configurations or restrictions that may apply to the cost element in question.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making any changes, perform a test transaction to ensure that the error does not occur again.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Cost Element Categories: In SAP, cost elements are categorized into primary and secondary cost elements. Primary cost elements (category 21) are used to post costs directly from financial accounting, while secondary cost elements are used for internal allocations.
  Transaction Codes:
  
  KA01: Create Cost Element
  KA02: Change Cost Element
  KA03: Display Cost Element
  KAH1: Create Cost Element Group
  KAH2: Change Cost Element Group
  KAH3: Display Cost Element Group
  
  
  
  If you continue to experience issues after following these steps, it may be beneficial to engage with your SAP support team or a consultant who specializes in SAP Controlling.