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Check a Leitweg-ID

Paste the Leitweg-ID you received from a German public authority into the field above. The checker verifies the structure (coarse addressing, optional fine addressing, check digit), the allowed characters and the two-digit check digit, and explains each part. A wrong Leitweg-ID is one of the most common reasons why XRechnung invoices to authorities are rejected.

Paste one or many IDs — one per line or separated by commas or semicolons. The check runs as you type.

Examples:

Your files never leave your device — everything runs locally in your browser.

How it works

  1. 1

    Paste the ID

    Exactly as given by the authority, including hyphens.

  2. 2

    Automatic check

    Format, length, characters and check digit are verified.

  3. 3

    Read the result

    Each part of the ID is shown and explained.

  4. 4

    Use it

    Enter the valid ID as buyer reference (BT-10) in your XRechnung.

What is a Leitweg-ID?

The Leitweg-ID is the routing address for e-invoices to German public administrations. It ensures an XRechnung arrives at the right invoice recipient within an authority. It is required by federal authorities and by many states and municipalities, and goes into the buyer reference field (BT-10) of the invoice.

Structure

PartMeaning
Coarse addressingIdentifies the administrative level and unit; digits only.
Fine addressingOptional further subdivision within that unit; letters and digits.
Check digitTwo digits at the end, calculated with modulo 97 (similar to the IBAN).

The parts are separated by hyphens. Thanks to the check digit, most typing errors — swapped or wrong characters — are detected immediately.

What a valid check does not prove

A correct check digit only means the ID is well-formed. Whether it belongs to the authority you are invoicing can only be confirmed by the authority itself — usually it is stated in the order or contract. If in doubt, ask your contact before sending the invoice.

Ready to invoice? Create the XRechnung with the e-invoice generator and check it with the validator.

Tips

  • A valid check digit only means the ID is formally correct — whether it belongs to the right office only the contracting authority knows.
  • Copy the ID exactly, including all hyphens.
  • Create the XRechnung directly in the e-invoice generator.

Frequently asked questions

Where do I get the Leitweg-ID?

From the public authority you are invoicing — usually in the purchase order, the contract or on request.

Do business customers have a Leitweg-ID?

No, it is only used by public authorities. For businesses, the XRechnung buyer reference can be an order number or cost centre.

What happens with a wrong Leitweg-ID?

The invoice usually cannot be delivered or is rejected by the portal, which delays payment.

Is the ID sent anywhere?

No, the check runs entirely in your browser.

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