How To Fix KE401 - Foreign key relationship for field & is incorrect

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KE -

• Message number: 401

• Message text: Foreign key relationship for field & is incorrect

What causes this issue?

The foreign key connection for field &V1& of Table &V2& is incorrect.
The check table &V2& and check field &V3& are entered in the field
catalog TKEF.

System Response

Transaction/program abended.

How to fix this error?

Ask your system administrator to reorganize the field catalog. This
is done using the program RKEREOFC.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KE401 - Foreign key relationship for field & is incorrect ?

  The SAP error message KE401 indicates that there is an issue with a foreign key relationship for a specific field in the context of controlling (CO) module transactions. This error typically arises when there is a mismatch or inconsistency in the data that violates the foreign key constraints defined in the system.
  Cause of KE401 Error
  
  
  Data Inconsistency: The most common cause is that the data being entered does not match the expected values in the related tables. For example, if you are trying to post a cost center that does not exist in the master data, this error will occur.
  
  
  Missing Master Data: The required master data (like cost centers, internal orders, etc.) may not be created or may have been deleted.
  
  
  Incorrect Configuration: There may be issues with the configuration of the controlling area or the related settings in the SAP system.
  
  
  Authorization Issues: Sometimes, the user may not have the necessary authorizations to access certain data, leading to this error.
  
  
  Solution to KE401 Error
  
  
  Check Master Data: Verify that the master data (e.g., cost centers, internal orders, etc.) exists and is correctly configured. You can do this by navigating to the relevant master data transaction (e.g., KS01 for cost centers) and checking if the required entries are present.
  
  
  Review Input Data: Ensure that the data you are trying to enter is correct and matches the expected values in the system. Double-check for typos or incorrect entries.
  
  
  Configuration Review: If you have access, review the configuration settings in the controlling area to ensure that everything is set up correctly. This may involve checking the settings in transaction codes like OKKP (Controlling Area) or OKEQ (Cost Element).
  
  
  Authorization Check: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to access the data being used. This may involve checking user roles and authorizations in transaction SU01.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If the issue persists, consult SAP documentation or support resources for more specific guidance related to the error message.
  
  
  Debugging: If you have technical expertise, you can debug the program to identify the exact point of failure and understand why the foreign key relationship is being violated.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as KS01 (Create Cost Center), KS02 (Change Cost Center), and KS03 (Display Cost Center) to manage master data.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the KE401 error.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or support channels for additional insights and solutions from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the KE401 error in your SAP system.