How do I fix DE-R-031?

Invoice Navigator automatically fixes this issue by correcting the `cac:PaymentMandate` element in your Invoice (DE-R-031). You can also use Invoice Navigator's automatic Fixer tool to correct this instantly.

Is DE-R-031 a critical error?

Yes, DE-R-031 is a critical error that will cause invoice rejection. It must be fixed before submission to ensure your invoice is accepted.

Can DE-R-031 be automatically fixed?

Yes, DE-R-031 can be automatically corrected. The fix is applied without modifying financial fields.

Error codes · EN 16931 · Germany

DE-R-031In your invoicing software

If the group "DIRECT DEBIT" (BG-19) is delivered, the element "Debited...

This is the rejection, word for word: „[DE-R-031] Debited account missing. When direct debit (BG-19) is used, the debited account identifier (BT-91) containing the buyer's IBAN is required.“

What to have readyNothing. The file has to be re-exported from your invoicing software; we check it again afterwards.

What we doInvoice Navigator automatically fixes this issue by correcting the `cac:PaymentMandate` element in your Invoice (DE-R-031).

Choose the rejected invoiceor drop it here

XRechnung XML or ZUGFeRD PDF. Checking is free · corrected file €1.90 · the first every 30 days is free · no sign-up.

If you enter it yourself in your invoicing software

Before

<cac:PaymentMeans>
  <cac:PaymentMandate><!-- invalid or missing value --></cac:PaymentMandate>
</cac:PaymentMeans>

After

<cac:PaymentMeans>
  <cac:PaymentMandate>correct-value</cac:PaymentMandate>
</cac:PaymentMeans>

Element order is part of the rule: if the element sits in the wrong place, the validator rejects with DE-R-031.

What the finding looks likeExample

FindingStructure invalid · DE-R-031

Location//cac:InvoicePeriod/cbc:StartDate

From youA re-exported file

ThenRe-export

ProofSHA-256 and /verify link after the check

Often appears together with

BR-67An Invoice shall contain maximum one Payment Mandate (BG-19).DE-R-020Debited account identifier (BT-91) should contain a valid IBAN if code 59...DE-R-030Creditor identifier missing. When direct debit (BG-19) is used, the bank...