errorDEPEPPOL_BIS

DE-R-014:The element "VAT category rate" (BT-119) shall be provided.

VAT rate is missing. German invoices must specify the VAT percentage rate (BT-119) for each VAT breakdown.

Why This Error Matters

Invoice will be rejected by German XRechnung validators. Germany has additional mandatory fields beyond EN16931 baseline, including seller contact details, complete addresses, and buyer reference (Leitweg-ID).

Common Causes

  • German invoice missing VAT category rate
  • BT-119 VAT category rate not provided
  • cbc:Percent in VAT breakdown empty or absent
  • VAT rate mandatory in tax breakdown for XRechnung
  • German validation requires explicit rate percentage

Frequently Asked Questions

VAT rate is missing. German invoices must specify the VAT percentage rate (BT-119) for each VAT breakdown.
VAT rate is missing. German invoices must specify the VAT percentage rate (BT-119) for each VAT breakdown. You can also use Invoice Navigator's automatic Fixer tool to correct this instantly.
Yes, DE-R-014 is a critical error that will cause invoice rejection. It must be fixed before submission to ensure your invoice is accepted.
Many instances of DE-R-014 can be automatically corrected using Invoice Navigator's Fixer tool. Upload your invoice and the tool will identify and fix common issues.

See Also

🇩🇪

E-Invoicing in Germany

Requirements & common errors

Last updated: 16 January 2026

Share this guide: