XRechnung is Here - Now Mandatory in Germany
Since January 2025, all companies must be able to receive E-invoices. Sending is still transitionally allowed as PDF/paper until 2027. Exceptions: Small businesses (§ 19 UStG), small amount invoices up to €250, tickets. GrandTotal has supported E-invoices since 2017 and is ready for all requirements.
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
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.
Currently, the UBL variant requires less additional information than CII.
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.
