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DE-R-020:Invalid debit IBAN format. When payment means code 59 (SEPA direct debit) is used, the debited account (BT-91) must cont

Invalid debit IBAN format. When payment means code 59 (SEPA direct debit) is used, the debited account (BT-91) must contain a valid IBAN.

Why This Error Matters

Invoice will be rejected by German XRechnung validators. German e-invoicing has specific format requirements for payment details, contact information, and attachments.

Common Causes

  • SEPA direct debit missing valid debtor IBAN
  • BT-91 debited account not valid IBAN format
  • Payment means code 59 requires IBAN in debit account
  • Customer bank account not in IBAN format for SEPA
  • cbc:ID in cac:PaymentMandate/cac:PayerFinancialAccount invalid

Frequently Asked Questions

Invalid debit IBAN format. When payment means code 59 (SEPA direct debit) is used, the debited account (BT-91) must contain a valid IBAN.
Invalid debit IBAN format. When payment means code 59 (SEPA direct debit) is used, the debited account (BT-91) must contain a valid IBAN. You can also use Invoice Navigator's automatic Fixer tool to correct this instantly.
DE-R-020 is a warning that may not always cause rejection, but it indicates a potential compliance issue that should be addressed.
Many instances of DE-R-020 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

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