How XRechnung Works
XRechnung defines a strict XML structure based on the European standard EN 16931. It supports two syntaxes:
- UBL 2.1 (Universal Business Language) — Most common, used by Peppol
- UN/CEFACT CII (Cross-Industry Invoice) — Used by ZUGFeRD/Factur-X
German-Specific Rules
XRechnung adds 21 business rules beyond EN 16931, including:
- Leitweg-ID: Required routing identifier for German government invoices
- Payment terms: Specific format requirements
- VAT categories: Mapping to German tax codes
Submission Methods
XRechnung invoices can be submitted via:
- ZRE (Zentrale Rechnungseingangsplattform): Federal government portal
- OZG-RE: State government portals
- Peppol: Via certified Access Point
- Email: To specific submission addresses (varies by authority)
Why XRechnung Matters
B2G: Already Mandatory
Since November 2020, all invoices to German federal authorities must be XRechnung-compliant. Most state governments have similar requirements. Non-compliant invoices may be rejected.
B2B: Coming 2025-2028
Germany's B2B e-invoicing mandate phases in:
- January 2025: All businesses must receive EN 16931 invoices
- January 2027: Businesses >€800K must send e-invoices
- January 2028: All businesses must send e-invoices
XRechnung or ZUGFeRD are both accepted for the B2B mandate.
How to Get Started
Step 1: Check Your Requirements
Are you invoicing government (B2G) or only businesses (B2B)? Government requires XRechnung; B2B can use XRechnung or ZUGFeRD.
Step 2: Get Your Leitweg-ID
For government invoices, you need the recipient's Leitweg-ID routing number. This is usually provided on purchase orders or contracts.
Step 3: Generate or Convert
Use your accounting software's XRechnung export, or convert existing invoices using our generator.
Validate Your XRechnung Invoice
Check compliance with German XRechnung rules instantly.
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What is ZUGFeRD?
ZUGFeRD is a hybrid e-invoice format that embeds structured XML data inside a PDF/A-3 file, allowing invoices to be both human-readable and machine-processable.
What is Peppol?
Peppol is a secure international network that enables businesses and governments to exchange electronic documents like invoices, orders, and catalogs.
Read moreWhat is ZUGFeRD?
ZUGFeRD is a hybrid e-invoice format that embeds structured XML data inside a PDF/A-3 file, allowing invoices to be both human-readable and machine-processable.
Read moreWhat is EN 16931?
EN 16931 is the European standard that defines the semantic data model for electronic invoices, ensuring interoperability across all EU member states.
Read more