How To Fix KQ021 - Cannot save: Level 1 is not the controlling area

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KQ - Error Messages for Customizing Product Costing

• Message number: 021

• Message text: Cannot save: Level 1 is not the controlling area

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KQ021 - Cannot save: Level 1 is not the controlling area ?

  The SAP error message KQ021, "Cannot save: Level 1 is not the controlling area," typically occurs in the context of controlling (CO) module transactions, particularly when dealing with cost centers, internal orders, or other controlling objects. This error indicates that there is a mismatch between the controlling area defined in the transaction and the controlling area associated with the level 1 object (such as a cost center or internal order).
  Cause:
  
  Controlling Area Mismatch: The most common cause of this error is that the controlling area assigned to the level 1 object (e.g., a cost center) does not match the controlling area of the transaction you are trying to save.
  Incorrect Configuration: There may be incorrect configuration settings in the controlling area or the master data of the cost centers or internal orders.
  Data Entry Error: The user may have inadvertently selected the wrong controlling area or object during data entry.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Controlling Area: Verify that the controlling area assigned to the level 1 object matches the controlling area you are working with in your transaction. You can do this by:
  
  Navigating to the master data of the cost center or internal order and checking the controlling area.
  Ensuring that the controlling area in the transaction matches the one in the master data.
  
  
  
  Correct Master Data: If there is a mismatch, you may need to correct the master data of the cost center or internal order to ensure it is assigned to the correct controlling area.
  
  
  Review Configuration: If the issue persists, review the configuration settings in the controlling area to ensure that everything is set up correctly. This may involve checking the settings in the SPRO transaction (Customizing) under the controlling area settings.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the configuration or how to resolve the issue, consult SAP documentation or reach out to your SAP support team for assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may use transaction codes like KS01 (Create Cost Center), KO01 (Create Internal Order), or KSB1 (Cost Centers: Actual Line Items) to check and manage master data.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to the controlling area or master data.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the KQ021 error message in SAP.