How To Fix KS185 - Cost element &1 already exists on the database

KS185 - Overview

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KS - RK-S Master Data Maintenance

• Message number: 185

• Message text: Cost element &1 already exists on the database

What causes this issue?

Cost element &v1& in controlling area &v2& has already been created and
has been found on the database.
Cost elements can only be created for a single time interval using BAPI
callup, and they may not already exist on the database.

System Response

The system deactivates the current entry in the list of cost elements
to be created. The cost element is therefore not created.

How to fix this error?

If you want to create additional time intervals for cost elements use
the <DS:TRAN.KA01>standard transactions</> for cost elements.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KS185 - Cost element &1 already exists on the database ?

  The SAP error message KS185 indicates that a cost element you are trying to create already exists in the database. This typically occurs when you attempt to create a new cost element with an identifier (cost element number) that is already in use.
  
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Cost Element: The most common cause is that the cost element number you are trying to create is already assigned to an existing cost element in the system.
  Incorrect Input: You may have mistakenly entered the wrong cost element number or have not checked the existing cost elements before attempting to create a new one.
  Data Migration Issues: If you are migrating data from another system or performing mass uploads, there may be duplicates in the data being imported.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Cost Elements: Before creating a new cost element, check the existing cost elements in the system to ensure that the number you want to use is not already taken.