How To Fix KH864 - Formula cannot be saved in internal format

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KH - CO-PA Reporting

• Message number: 864

• Message text: Formula cannot be saved in internal format

What causes this issue?

The internal format of the formula definition cannot be saved.

System Response

The formula is not saved.

How to fix this error?

Check whether any operators (+, -, *, /) are missing in the formula
definition. This error can occur when functions are called up with long
lists of parameters or several interlocking levels of parentheses.

Procedure for System Administrators

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KH864 - Formula cannot be saved in internal format ?

  The SAP error message KH864, which states "Formula cannot be saved in internal format," typically occurs in the context of SAP Controlling (CO) when working with cost planning or cost allocation formulas. This error indicates that there is an issue with the formula syntax or structure that prevents it from being saved in the system's internal format.
  Causes:
  
  Syntax Errors: The formula may contain syntax errors, such as incorrect operators, missing parentheses, or invalid references.
  Unsupported Functions: The formula may use functions or features that are not supported in the internal format.
  Data Type Mismatches: The formula may involve data types that are incompatible with each other.
  Exceeding Length Limits: The formula may exceed the maximum length allowed for formulas in SAP.
  Invalid References: The formula may reference objects (like cost centers, internal orders, etc.) that do not exist or are not valid in the current context.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Syntax: Review the formula for any syntax errors. Ensure that all operators and functions are used correctly.
  Simplify the Formula: If the formula is complex, try breaking it down into simpler components or steps to identify the problematic part.
  Use Supported Functions: Ensure that all functions used in the formula are supported by SAP for the specific context you are working in.
  Verify Data Types: Check that all elements in the formula are of compatible data types.
  Shorten the Formula: If the formula is too long, try to condense it or split it into multiple formulas if possible.
  Check References: Ensure that all references in the formula are valid and exist in the system.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for guidelines on creating and managing formulas in the Controlling module.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as KP26 (for planning) or KZ01 (for cost allocation) where formulas are often used.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups for additional insights and solutions from other users who may have encountered the same issue.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a technical consultant who can provide more in-depth assistance.