How To Fix KO170 - Enter a cost element (category 21)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KO - Master data for CO orders

• Message number: 170

• Message text: Enter a cost element (category 21)

What causes this issue?

For allocation to cost center, the settlement cost element must be of
type 21 (internal order settlement). Cost element &v1& is not of this
type.

How to fix this error?

Enter a valid cost element of type 21, or remove your entry.

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 KO170 - Enter a cost element (category 21) ?

  The SAP error message KO170, which states "Enter a cost element (category 21)," typically occurs in the context of controlling (CO) when you are trying to post a transaction that requires a cost element but none has been specified. This error is common when dealing with internal orders, cost centers, or other CO-related transactions.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when:
  
  A cost element is required for the transaction, but it has not been entered.
  The system expects a cost element of category 21 (which is typically used for internal activity allocation).
  The configuration of the cost element or the internal order may not be set up correctly.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the KO170 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Enter a Cost Element: 
  
  Ensure that you are entering a valid cost element in the relevant field. This should be a cost element of category 21.
  
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Verify that the cost element you are trying to use is correctly configured in the system. You can do this by navigating to the cost element master data and checking its category.
  Ensure that the cost element is assigned to the appropriate cost center or internal order.
  
  
  
  Review Transaction Type:
  
  Make sure that the transaction type you are using is appropriate for the cost element category. For example, if you are trying to allocate costs, ensure that the transaction type supports that.
  
  
  
  Check Internal Order Settings:
  
  If you are working with internal orders, check the settings of the internal order to ensure that it is set up to accept postings with the specified cost element.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If you are unsure about the cost element or its configuration, refer to SAP documentation or consult with your SAP CO module expert.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making the necessary changes, try to post the transaction again to see if the error persists.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Cost Element Categories: In SAP, cost elements are categorized into different types (e.g., primary, secondary). Category 21 is specifically for internal activity allocation.
  Transaction Codes: You may use transaction codes like KA01 (Create Cost Element) or KA02 (Change Cost Element) to manage cost elements.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to post transactions involving cost elements.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the KO170 error and successfully post your transaction in SAP.