How To Fix ME456 - Account assignment category cannot be changed for limit items

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ME - Purchasing: General Messages

• Message number: 456

• Message text: Account assignment category cannot be changed for limit items

What causes this issue?

It is not possible to change the
<DS:GLOS.3528EA71E8A0556FE10000009B38F983>account assignment category
</> in the case of limit items in purchase orders.

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?

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 ME456 - Account assignment category cannot be changed for limit items ?

  The SAP error message ME456 ("Account assignment category cannot be changed for limit items") typically occurs when you are trying to change the account assignment category of a purchase order (PO) item that is associated with a limit item. Limit items are used in purchase orders to define a maximum amount that can be spent, and they have specific rules regarding their account assignment.
  Cause:
  The error arises because:
  
  Limit Items: The item in question is a limit item, which means it is tied to a specific account assignment category that cannot be altered once it has been set.
  Account Assignment Category: The account assignment category defines how costs are allocated and is critical for financial reporting and controlling. Changing it for limit items is not allowed as it could lead to inconsistencies in financial data.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, consider the following steps:
  
  
  Check Item Type: Verify if the item you are trying to change is indeed a limit item. You can do this by checking the item details in the purchase order.
  
  
  Create a New Item: If you need to change the account assignment category, you may need to create a new item in the purchase order with the desired account assignment category instead of modifying the existing limit item.
  
  
  Adjust the Limit: If the limit item needs to be adjusted, you can change the limit amount or other relevant details without changing the account assignment category.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for specific guidelines on handling limit items and account assignment categories.
  
  
  Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to the purchase order. Sometimes, restrictions may be in place based on user roles.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional insights or updates regarding this error message.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes related to purchase orders (e.g., ME21N for creating POs, ME22N for changing POs) to navigate the system effectively.
  Training: Consider training sessions or resources on SAP purchasing processes to better understand how account assignments and limit items work.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the ME456 error and proceed with your purchasing activities in SAP.