Key Elements of the German E-Invoice Mandate:
1- XML Formats for Receiving Invoices
Germany’s mandate focuses on the following XML formats for receiving e-invoices:
- XRechnung: This is the primary format for e-invoices received in Germany. It ensures compliance with EU standards and enables easier data processing.
- ZUGFeRD: While primarily used for B2B transactions, this format can also be received by businesses as part of the mandate. It combines both machine-readable XML data and human-readable PDF in a single document, making it easier for businesses to process invoices.
2- Submission Channels
Businesses must ensure they can receive e-invoices through standardized and secure channels:
- Peppol Network: As a pan-European standard, the Peppol network enables secure, efficient receipt of invoices from various EU countries.
- Email-Based XML Receipt: While the preferred method is through platforms like Peppol, businesses may also receive e-invoices by email in XML format, ensuring flexibility and ease of integration with existing systems.
The e-invoice mandate isn’t just about compliance—it’s about enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and reducing paper-based processes. By receiving invoices electronically, businesses can significantly cut down on manual entry, avoid errors, and speed up payments and processing.
✅ How can businesses prepare for the January 1, 2025 deadline?