Create an XRechnung or ZUGFeRD invoice
Fill in the form and download an XRechnung or a ZUGFeRD invoice for German clients. Free, no account needed. Before the download we check the file with the official validator.
XRechnung or ZUGFeRD?
Both formats follow the European standard EN 16931 and count as e-invoices in Germany. XRechnung is a plain XML file in either CII or UBL syntax. Public-sector clients usually ask for XRechnung with a Leitweg-ID.
ZUGFeRD is a PDF/A-3 with an embedded XML file. People read the PDF, software reads the XML data. This tool creates the EN 16931 profile. The MINIMUM and BASIC WL profiles do not count as e-invoices (as of October 2026).
Who has to receive and send e-invoices in Germany?
As of October 2026
Since 1 January 2025, every business established in Germany must be able to receive and process e-invoices.
For supplies in 2025 and 2026 you may still send paper invoices, or PDFs if the client agrees. For supplies in 2027 this only applies if your total turnover in the previous year was at most EUR 800,000.
From 1 January 2028, every business must send e-invoices for supplies to other businesses in Germany. A plain PDF sent by email is not an e-invoice.
Small businesses (Kleinunternehmer)
Small businesses under § 19 UStG may keep sending paper or PDF invoices (§ 34a UStDV). They still have to be able to receive e-invoices.
To send an e-invoice anyway, with your client's consent, choose “Small business (Kleinunternehmer, § 19 UStG)” on every line. The file then shows no VAT and carries the note “Steuerbefreiung für Kleinunternehmer nach § 19 UStG”.
How is the file checked?
We check XRechnung files with the official KoSIT validator and the configuration for XRechnung 3.0.2. We check ZUGFeRD files with the open-source tool Mustang: veraPDF for PDF/A-3 and the EN 16931 rules.
You only get the file when the check ends without errors. Otherwise we list the errors with the field you need to change.
Received an e-invoice? Check and read it here.
Sources: § 14 UStG, § 27 Abs. 38 UStG, § 19 UStG, § 34a UStDV
Frequently asked questions
Is creating an XRechnung free?
Yes. You need no account and no sign-up. Fill in the form and download the file.
Should I choose XRechnung or ZUGFeRD?
Public-sector clients in Germany usually ask for XRechnung with a Leitweg-ID. For companies ZUGFeRD is handy, because the PDF can be read without special software. Both formats count as e-invoices. If in doubt, ask your client which format they want.
What is a Leitweg-ID?
The Leitweg-ID routes invoices to public-sector clients in Germany. You get it from the client, often it is printed on the purchase order. For private clients, enter a reference instead, such as the order number.
Do small businesses (Kleinunternehmer) have to send e-invoices?
No. Under § 34a UStDV small businesses may keep sending paper or PDF invoices. Since 1 January 2025 they must still be able to receive e-invoices. With this tool you can create an e-invoice with the § 19 UStG note if you want to. As of October 2026.
What happens if the check finds errors?
Then there is no download. The form shows every error with the field concerned and a short explanation. We also show the validator's rule code, for example BR-DE-15.
Do you store my data?
Not when you download. Your details go to our server to create and check the file. After that we keep nothing, and the file goes straight to your browser. If you choose “Save in a free account”, we keep the checked invoice for up to 24 hours until you create your account or log in; then it moves into your account.