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XInvoice is a standard for electronic invoices in Germany that was developed specifically for the public sector.
It is an XML-based format that meets the requirements of the European standard EN 16931 for electronic invoicing. The introduction of XRechnung aims to digitize and standardize the invoicing process in order to promote efficiency, transparency and cost savings.
The European Directive 2014/55/EU obliges contracting authorities to accept electronic invoices that comply with European standards. Xinvoice was developed to implement these requirements in Germany.
XRechnung is based on the European standard EN 16931, which defines the structure and semantic data requirements for electronic invoices. The XML format ensures that all necessary information is transmitted in a standardized form.
Since November 27, 2020, all public clients in Germany have been obliged to accept electronic invoices in the Xinvoices format. This obligation applies to invoices to federal authorities as well as invoices to state and local authorities.
An XInvoice must contain various mandatory details, including:
• Invoice number and date
• Name and address of the invoicing party and the invoice recipient
• Tax or sales tax identification number
• Bank details of the invoicing party
• Description of the goods delivered or services provided
• Unit price and total amount
XInvoice uses the XML format, which enables automated processing. XInvoice is transmitted via secure channels, often via platforms such as the PEPPOL network or specific eInvoice portals.
There are various software solutions and service providers that support companies in creating and sending Xinvoices. These tools ensure that all legal requirements are met and that invoices are formatted correctly.
The standardized structure of Xinvoice enables easy integration into electronic accounting and ERP systems, which reduces manual entries and minimizes errors.
The electronic invoicing process speeds up the processing and payment of invoices.
By eliminating paper-based processes and reducing manual processing steps, administrative costs can be lowered.
Automated processes reduce the effort involved in manually entering and processing invoices.
Overall, Xinvoice contributes to the digitalization and modernization of public procurement in Germany and supports the objectives of the European directive on electronic invoicing.
