How to create an e-invoice
As of:
You can create e-invoices with accounting software, via public-sector portals, or with a free online generator. What matters is that the invoice uses a format compliant with EN 16931 — usually XRechnung or ZUGFeRD — and contains all mandatory details.
This article is general information, not legal or tax advice.
Three ways to an e-invoice
| Route | For whom |
|---|---|
| Accounting or ERP software | Businesses with many invoices |
| Online generator | Freelancers, small businesses, occasional invoices — e.g. our e-invoice generator |
| Public-sector invoice portals | Invoices to authorities; some offer entry forms |
Key details
- Full name and address of seller and buyer
- Tax number or VAT ID of the seller
- Invoice date and sequential invoice number
- Quantity and type of goods or services, date or period of supply
- Net amounts by tax rate, tax rate and tax amount — or a note on the exemption
XRechnung additionally requires a buyer reference (for authorities: the Leitweg-ID) and seller contact details with phone and email.
Step by step with the generator
- Choose the format: XRechnung for authorities, ZUGFeRD for business customers.
- Enter your company details (optionally stored locally).
- Enter customer details and, if available, the buyer reference or Leitweg-ID.
- Add line items with quantity, unit, price and tax rate — totals are calculated.
- Add payment terms and IBAN, validate and download.
Before sending, check the file in the viewer and with the validator.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep using my Word invoice template?
As a readable template yes, but a PDF created from it is not an e-invoice. You also need the structured data (XRechnung or ZUGFeRD).
How do I send the e-invoice?
Usually by email as an attachment or through the recipient’s portal.