How To Fix KA398 - Overhead & is still in use

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 398

• Message text: Overhead & is still in use

What causes this issue?

Overhead &V1& is still being used in other controlling areas.

System Response

Deletion not possible.

How to fix this error?

You cannot delete overhead &V1& while it is still being used in any
controlling area.
You can also delete the overhead data and the definition in the
overview list.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KA398 - Overhead & is still in use ?

  The SAP error message KA398, which states "Overhead & is still in use," typically occurs in the context of controlling (CO) when you attempt to delete or change an overhead cost element that is still being referenced in various transactions or configurations. This can happen in various scenarios, such as when trying to delete a cost center, internal order, or other controlling objects that are linked to the overhead cost element.
  Cause:
  
  Active References: The overhead cost element is still being used in various transactions, such as cost allocations, budgeting, or actual postings.
  Open Periods: There may be open periods in which the overhead cost element has been used, preventing its deletion or modification.
  Configuration Dependencies: The overhead cost element may be linked to other configurations or master data that are still active.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the KA398 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Identify References:
  
  Use transaction codes like KSB1 (Cost Centers: Actual Line Items) or KOB1 (Orders: Actual Line Items) to check if there are any postings related to the overhead cost element.
  Check if the overhead cost element is assigned to any cost centers, internal orders, or other controlling objects.
  
  
  
  Clear Open Transactions:
  
  If there are open transactions, you may need to reverse or settle them before you can delete or modify the overhead cost element.
  Ensure that there are no active allocations or distributions that involve the overhead cost element.
  
  
  
  Close Open Periods:
  
  If applicable, close any open periods in which the overhead cost element has been used. This may involve financial closing activities.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration:
  
  Check the configuration settings in the controlling module to ensure that the overhead cost element is not linked to any active settings that prevent its deletion.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for specific guidelines related to your organization's configuration and usage of overhead cost elements.
  
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes:
  
  You can use transaction codes like KA02 (Change Cost Element) or KA03 (Display Cost Element) to check the status of the overhead cost element and see if it can be modified.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Cost Element Accounting: Understanding how cost elements work in SAP CO is crucial. Overhead cost elements are used to allocate indirect costs to cost centers or internal orders.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific issues or patches related to the KA398 error.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to cost elements and related configurations.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to engage with your SAP support team or consult with an SAP expert for further assistance.