How To Fix KA189 - Cost element (type &) must be of type &

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KA - CO Overhead Costs: Overhead, Accrual Calculation

• Message number: 189

• Message text: Cost element (type &) must be of type &

What causes this issue?

The cost element you entered is of type &V1&.
A credit cost element must be of type &V2&.

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?

Select a valid credit cost element -> F4.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KA189 - Cost element (type &) must be of type & ?

  The SAP error message KA189 indicates that there is a mismatch in the type of cost element being used in a transaction or configuration. Specifically, the error message reads: "Cost element (type &) must be of type &," where the first type represents the type of cost element you are trying to use, and the second type represents the expected type.
  Cause:
  This error typically occurs due to one of the following reasons:
  
  
  Incorrect Cost Element Type: You are trying to use a cost element that is not compatible with the operation you are performing. For example, you might be trying to use a primary cost element where a secondary cost element is expected, or vice versa.
  
  
  Configuration Issues: There may be a configuration issue in the cost element settings in the SAP system. The cost element may not be set up correctly in the controlling area or may not be assigned to the correct category.
  
  
  Data Entry Errors: There could be a mistake in the data entry where the wrong cost element is selected.
  
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the KA189 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Cost Element Type:
  
  Verify the type of cost element you are trying to use. You can do this by navigating to the cost element master data (Transaction code: KA03) and checking the type of the cost element.
  Ensure that you are using the correct type of cost element for the transaction you are performing.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration:
  
  Check the configuration settings for cost elements in the controlling area. Ensure that the cost element is correctly defined and assigned to the appropriate category.
  If necessary, consult with your SAP configuration team to ensure that the cost element types are set up correctly.
  
  
  
  Correct Data Entry:
  
  If you are entering data manually, double-check your entries to ensure that you are selecting the correct cost element.
  If you are using a program or report, ensure that the logic is correctly selecting the appropriate cost element type.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for more information on cost element types and their usage.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making the necessary corrections, test the transaction again to ensure that the error has been resolved.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Cost Element Types: In SAP, cost elements can be classified into primary and secondary types. Primary cost elements are used to represent costs that originate from financial accounting, while secondary cost elements are used for internal cost allocations.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as KA01 (Create Cost Element), KA02 (Change Cost Element), and KA03 (Display Cost Element) for managing cost elements.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to cost element errors.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant for further assistance.