No, but you should read them. They often point to inaccuracies that can lead to queries later.

Why does my program report no error but the validator does?

The validator applies the complete rules of the norm; some programs check only part of them.

What does “valid” mean?

The file is formally correct. Whether the contents are right for tax purposes is not stated by the check.

Understanding and fixing e-invoice validation messages

A validator often names errors with a rule identifier such as BR-DE-15. Here is what the most common ones mean and what you can do.

Updated on 28 October 2026

How to read a message

A message usually consists of an identifier, a text and the location in the file. The identifier shows which rule was violated. “BR” stands for business rule, “DE” for an additional German rule, “CO” for a calculation rule. Errors must be fixed; warnings and notes are not grounds for rejection.

Common errors

These messages occur particularly often (selection):

BR-DE-15: the buyer reference (BT-10) is missing. For public authorities this is the Leitweg-ID.
BR-DE-1: payment details are missing, for example the IBAN.
BR-CO-10: the sum of the lines (BT-106) does not match the individual line amounts.
BR-CO-13: the total without tax (BT-109) does not fit the sum of lines and deductions.
BR-CO-15: the total with tax (BT-112) is not total without tax plus the tax amount.

Causes and solutions

These steps usually help:

Complete missing mandatory fields in the master data and create the invoice again.
Unify rounding: calculate totals on the same basis as the recipient's software.
Align tax category and tax rate.
With ZUGFeRD check the profile and the embedding of the XML.

Assigning errors

Every field has a BT number. The reference on fields shows which field is meant. After the correction validate the file again until no errors are shown.

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Frequently asked questions

Are warnings bad?: No, but you should read them. They often point to inaccuracies that can lead to queries later.
Why does my program report no error but the validator does?: The validator applies the complete rules of the norm; some programs check only part of them.
What does “valid” mean?: The file is formally correct. Whether the contents are right for tax purposes is not stated by the check.

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Check an e-invoice in a few seconds. Your file stays in the memory of a server in Germany only and is deleted after one hour at the latest.

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More guides

These guides do not replace tax or legal advice. For questions about your own case please ask your tax adviser.