Check an e-invoice: read XRechnung & ZUGFeRD

Frequently asked questions

What are XRechnung and ZUGFeRD?

Both are e-invoices under the European standard EN 16931 — structured data that accounting software can take over without retyping. XRechnung is a pure XML file (UBL or CII syntax), the German standard for invoices to public authorities. ZUGFeRD, called Factur-X in France, is a PDF with embedded XML: people read the PDF, software reads the XML. In Germany, the ZUGFeRD profiles BASIC, EN 16931, EXTENDED and XRECHNUNG count as e-invoices, MINIMUM and BASIC WL do not.

Who has to receive and issue e-invoices in Germany?

As of October 2026: since 1 January 2025, every business in Germany must be able to receive e-invoices from other domestic businesses. Issuing is being phased in: until the end of 2026, paper invoices and — with the consent of the recipient — other formats such as PDF are still allowed; from 1 January 2027 businesses with a prior-year turnover above €800,000 must issue e-invoices, and from 1 January 2028 all businesses must. There are exceptions, for example for small-amount invoices up to €250 and for small businesses under the small business scheme. This is an overview, not legal advice — your tax adviser can help with your case.

What is checked — and what is not?

The required fields and calculation rules of EN 16931 are checked: invoice number, date, seller and buyer, every line, the totals, VAT per category, date and number formats. For an XRechnung, the key German rules are added, such as the Leitweg-ID, the seller contact and the IBAN. Not checked are the full XML schema, all code lists, whether the PDF and XML of a ZUGFeRD invoice match, and whether prices and VAT rates are correct in substance. The binding check is the official KoSIT validator.

Does this apply in Austria and Switzerland too?

As of October 2026: in Austria, invoices to the federal government have had to be sent electronically via the business service portal since 2014, in ebInterface or PEPPOL format; there is no general obligation between businesses. Switzerland has no general obligation either; the federal administration requires e-invoices from its suppliers above a certain contract value. The tool reads UBL and CII — so PEPPOL invoices too, but not ebInterface.

What happens to my data?

Nothing. The file is read and checked entirely in your browser; it is not uploaded, not stored anywhere and not sent to anyone. The check report is created on your device as well. Reloading the page clears everything.