How To Fix ME571 - Account assignment category cannot be changed in higher-level items

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ME - Purchasing: General Messages

• Message number: 571

• Message text: Account assignment category cannot be changed in higher-level items

Self-Explanatory Message

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ME571 - Account assignment category cannot be changed in higher-level items ?

  The SAP error message ME571, which states "Account assignment category cannot be changed in higher-level items," typically occurs in the context of purchasing documents, such as purchase orders or purchase requisitions. This error arises when there is an attempt to change the account assignment category of a higher-level item (like a header item) that has already been defined in a way that does not allow for such changes.
  Cause:
  
  
  Hierarchy Structure: In SAP, items in a purchase order can have a hierarchical structure. Higher-level items (like a main item) can have sub-items (like components or services). The account assignment category (e.g., whether the item is a cost center, internal order, etc.) is defined at the higher level and cannot be changed if there are dependent lower-level items.
  
  
  Existing Assignments: If the higher-level item has already been assigned a specific account assignment category, changing it may conflict with the existing assignments of the lower-level items.
  
  
  Document Status: The status of the document may also play a role. If the document is already processed or has been partially delivered, changes to the account assignment category may be restricted.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Review Item Structure: Check the structure of the purchase order or requisition. Ensure that you are not trying to change the account assignment category of a higher-level item that has dependent lower-level items.
  
  
  Change Lower-Level Items: If you need to change the account assignment category, consider changing it at the lower-level items instead of the higher-level item.
  
  
  Create New Item: If necessary, you may need to create a new higher-level item with the desired account assignment category and then reassign the lower-level items to this new item.
  
  
  Check Document Status: Ensure that the document is in a status that allows for changes. If it has been processed, you may need to reverse or cancel certain actions before making changes.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or your organization's SAP guidelines for specific procedures related to account assignment categories and item hierarchies.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Account Assignment Categories: These categories determine how costs are allocated for items in purchasing documents. Common categories include cost center, internal order, asset, etc.
  
  
  SAP Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME22N (Change Purchase Order), and ME23N (Display Purchase Order) to navigate and manage purchasing documents effectively.
  
  
  SAP Notes and Support: If the issue persists, consider checking SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. You can also reach out to your SAP support team for assistance.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the ME571 error and manage your purchasing documents effectively.