How To Fix K8803 - The "cost element" characteristic can be left out in activity input only.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: K8 - CO Planning: Messages for Function Group KAPP

• Message number: 803

• Message text: The "cost element" characteristic can be left out in activity input only.

What causes this issue?

You have not selected the characteristic "cost element" anywhere in the
planning layout up to this point.
The characteristic can be left out only if the layout is to be used for
activity input planning.
However, this layout is not intended for this purpose as it also lacks
the characteristic "Sender cost center".

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?

Please include either the characteristic "Cost element", or both the
characteristics "Sender cost center" and "Sender activity type" in the
layout.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message K8803 - The "cost element" characteristic can be left out in activity input only. ?

  The SAP error message K8803, which states "The 'cost element' characteristic can be left out in activity input only," typically occurs in the context of activity allocation in controlling (CO) when you are trying to post activity inputs without specifying a cost element. This error is related to the configuration of the activity types and how they are set up in the system.
  Cause:
  
  Activity Type Configuration: The error usually arises when the activity type is configured to require a cost element for the posting. In SAP, activity types can be set up to either require or not require a cost element when posting activity inputs.
  Posting Method: If you are trying to post activity inputs directly to a cost center or internal order without specifying a cost element, and the configuration does not allow for this, the system will throw this error.
  Cost Element Assignment: The cost element may not be properly assigned to the activity type or the cost center, leading to the inability to process the input without a cost element.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Activity Type Configuration:
  
  Go to the configuration settings for the activity type in the SAP system (Transaction code: OKA0).
  Ensure that the activity type is set up correctly and check the settings related to cost element requirements.
  
  
  
  Specify Cost Element:
  
  When posting activity inputs, ensure that you are including the cost element in your entry. This can often be done in the transaction where you are entering the activity input.
  
  
  
  Review Cost Center/Order Settings:
  
  Check the cost center or internal order settings to ensure that they are correctly configured to accept activity inputs without requiring a cost element if that is the desired behavior.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help resources related to activity types and cost elements for further guidance on configuration and usage.
  
  
  
  System Configuration:
  
  If you have the necessary authorizations, you may need to adjust the configuration settings in the controlling module to allow for activity inputs without a cost element, if that aligns with your business processes.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  OKA0: Activity Types
  KSU5: Activity Input
  KSV5: Display Activity Input
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional insights into configuration best practices.
  User Roles: Ensure that the user has the appropriate roles and permissions to perform the necessary actions in the system.
  
  If the issue persists after checking these areas, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a consultant who specializes in SAP Controlling for further assistance.