XRechnung: What Actually Changes for You
XRechnung sounds like a major overhaul – but for GrandTotal users, little changes: E-invoices have been supported since 2017, everything you need is already on board. For context: companies have had to be able to receive E-invoices since January 2025. Sending is still allowed as PDF or paper, transitionally until 2027. Invoices to private individuals (B2C) are not affected anyway. Further exceptions: Small businesses (§ 19 UStG), small amount invoices up to €250, tickets.
What is an XRechnung?
XRechnung is a standardized format for electronic invoices in Germany. It is an XML-based schema that aims to standardize electronic invoice exchange between businesses, public institutions, and administrations. The format was developed to meet the requirements of the EU directive on electronic invoicing in the public sector.
How Does It Work?
XRechnung defines a series of rules and fields that must be included in every invoice. For example, information such as the supplier's name, description of delivered goods or services, price, and tax information must be present in a specific structure. Since it's an XML-based format, computers can more easily read and process these invoices, speeding up the entire process.
XRechnung with GrandTotal L & Classic
Before sending, GrandTotal checks whether all mandatory data is present and lets you add missing values right within the sending process.
UBL or CII?
XRechnung comes in two variants: CII (Cross Industry Invoice) and UBL (Universal Business Language). Both are based on XML data formats and fulfill the legal requirements for electronic invoice exchange in Germany.
InvoiceViewer
To make received XRechnungen readable, you can download the free InvoiceViewer. Additionally, invoices are automatically organized by date and provided with a SEPA QR Code for convenient payment.
