Error codes · XRechnung · Germany
BR-DE-20Partly
The Debited Account (BT-91) should contain a valid IBAN for SEPA direct... in Germany
This is the rejection, word for word: „[BR-DE-20] The Debited Account (BT-91) should contain a valid IBAN for SEPA direct debit. The current value doesn't match IBAN format.“
Why this matters in Germany
Germany requires e-invoicing using XRechnung (UBL), XRechnung (CII), ZUGFeRD 2.x. An invoice with this error is rejected; it cannot be processed under Germany's rules.
Invoice rejected. SEPA direct debits require valid IBANs.
What to have readyThe correct figures from your bookkeeping; we show you which field is affected.
What we doReview your Invoice XML structure and correct the issue described by this rule. Check relevant cbc: and cac: elements per XRechnung (Germany) (BR-DE-20).
How to fix BR-DE-20
01Identify the issue in your invoiceThe Debited Account (BT-91) should contain a valid IBAN for SEPA direct debit. The current value doesn't match IBAN format.
02Correct this in your invoicing softwareReview your Invoice XML structure and correct the issue described by this rule. Check relevant cbc: and cac: elements per XRechnung (Germany) (BR-DE-20).
03Re-export and validateGenerate a new invoice export from your accounting system and re-validate to confirm BR-DE-20 is resolved.
If you enter it yourself in your invoicing software
Before
<Invoice> <!-- Issue: German SEPA direct debit requires valid IBAN for debited acc --> </Invoice>
After
<Invoice> <!-- Issue resolved per XRechnung (Germany) --> </Invoice>
Germany e-invoicing requirements
| Phase | Status | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| B2G | Live (Nov 2020) | All federal suppliers |
| B2B receiving | Live (Jan 2025) | All German businesses |
| B2B sending | Jan 2027 | >€800K annual revenue |
| B2B sending | Jan 2028 | All businesses |
Known causes
Debited account is not valid IBAN for SEPA
BT-91 contains invalid IBAN for direct debit
German direct debit requires valid debtor IBAN
PaymentMandate account not valid IBAN format
FinancialAccount/ID fails IBAN validation