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BR-16:Invoice line must have an identifier

Each invoice line must have a unique line identifier (ID).

Fix this in your source system

MANUAL

Line identifiers must be unique and consistent with your accounting system. Automatic assignment could break document references and audit trails.

See the step-by-step instructions below to fix this error manually.

Why This Error Matters

Invoice rejected. Without line items, there is no description of goods/services being invoiced.

How to Fix It

1

Number lines

Use sequential numbers (1, 2, 3...) or your internal line references

2

Ensure uniqueness

Each line must have a different ID within the invoice

3

Keep consistent

Line IDs should match your internal order/invoice line numbers

Code Example

<cac:InvoiceLine>\n  <cbc:ID>1</cbc:ID>\n  <cbc:InvoicedQuantity unitCode="C62">10</cbc:InvoicedQuantity>\n  <!-- rest of line -->\n</cac:InvoiceLine>

Technical Details

XPath: /Invoice/cac:InvoiceLine/cbc:ID

Common Causes

  • Header-only invoice exported without line details
  • InvoiceLine elements failed to export from source
  • Summary invoice created without itemization
  • Export template missing InvoiceLine section entirely
  • Line items filtered out due to zero-value or invalid data

Commonly Seen In

All invoicing software

Frequently Asked Questions

Each invoice line must have a unique line identifier (ID).
Add a unique ID to each invoice line. You can also use Invoice Navigator's automatic Fixer tool to correct this instantly.
Yes, BR-16 is a critical error that will cause invoice rejection. It must be fixed before submission to ensure your invoice is accepted by the recipient's system.
Many instances of BR-16 can be automatically corrected using Invoice Navigator's Fixer tool. Upload your invoice and the tool will identify and fix common issues, including invoice line must have an identifier.
BR-16 is commonly seen in exports from All invoicing software. These software packages sometimes generate invoices that need adjustment to meet full compliance standards.

Related Errors

BR-17

Invoice line item name required

BR-18

Invoice line price required

Last updated: 18 January 2026

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