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Received an e-invoice? What to do with an XRechnung file
Since 2025, businesses in Germany must accept e-invoices. What to do with an XML file in your inbox, without buying software.
1. Open it
An XRechnung is an XML file: in a browser or editor it looks like code. Drop it into the e-invoice viewer and it shows as a normal invoice with sender, lines, amounts and bank details. The file stays on your device. A ZUGFeRD invoice opens like any PDF.
2. Check it
Is it formally correct? The e-invoice validator checks it against the official rules (EN 16931 and XRechnung). If required details are missing, you can ask for a corrected invoice; reclaiming input VAT needs a proper one.
3. Keep it
Keep the original file, not just a printout: for eight years, unchanged, as it arrived. For ZUGFeRD that's the PDF with its data.
4. Give it to your accountant
Accountants can usually import e-invoices directly. Give them the original files, not what the viewer shows.