How To Fix KM685 - You must specify either an account or a statistical key figure

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KM - Error messages for Profit Center Accounting

• Message number: 685

• Message text: You must specify either an account or a statistical key figure

What causes this issue?

You have specified both accounts and statistical key figures. However,
you can only enter one of these characteristics.

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?

Enter either an account or account group, or a statistical key figure
or statistical key figure group.
Note that you are required to enter one of these.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KM685 - You must specify either an account or a statistical key figure ?

  The SAP error message KM685 ("You must specify either an account or a statistical key figure") typically occurs in the context of controlling (CO) or cost center accounting when you are trying to post a transaction or create a record that requires either a cost account or a statistical key figure, but neither has been provided.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Account: The transaction you are trying to execute requires a cost account to be specified, but it has not been provided.
  Missing Statistical Key Figure: Alternatively, if the transaction is supposed to use a statistical key figure for allocation or distribution, and none has been specified, this error will also occur.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the controlling module that require certain fields to be filled out, and these settings may not be aligned with the data you are trying to post.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Input Fields: Ensure that you have filled in either the account number or the statistical key figure in the relevant fields of the transaction you are trying to execute.
  Review Transaction Type: Depending on the type of transaction (e.g., internal order, cost center posting), ensure that you are using the correct fields for the type of posting you are attempting.
  Consult Documentation: Review the documentation for the specific transaction to understand the required fields and ensure you are meeting all prerequisites.
  Configuration Review: If you have access, check the configuration settings in the controlling module to see if there are any mandatory fields that need to be filled out for the transaction type you are using.
  User Training: If this error is occurring frequently, consider providing additional training for users on how to properly fill out the necessary fields in the transaction.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: The error may occur in various transaction codes related to cost accounting, such as KSB1 (Cost Centers: Actual Line Items), KSV1 (Cost Center Planning), or others.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. Sometimes, specific versions of SAP may have bugs that are documented in SAP Notes.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary roles and authorizations to perform the transaction, as sometimes restrictions can lead to incomplete data entry.
  
  If the issue persists after checking these areas, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in the controlling module for further assistance.