With an e-invoice, invoice information is transmitted electronically, received automatically and processed further. This enables end-to-end digital processing from the creation of the invoice to the payment of the invoice amounts.Unlike a paper invoice or an
image file such as a PDF, an e-invoice presents invoice content in a structured, machine-readable data record. This ensures that invoices issued in this form by the invoice issuer
- Sent electronically,
- Received electronically
- And can be processed automatically without media discontinuity and paid out.
Electronic invoices are computer-readable documents in X-Rechnung format (XML file in UBL or CII format) or ZUGFeRD format (PDF document with integrated XML file). EDI procedures that comply with the EN 16931 standard are also accepted as e-invoices.
Telekom implements XML in UBL format and continues to offer the familiar EDI procedures ELMO and ELFE. ZUGFeRD will not be available as an invoicing medium when e-invoicing is launched.
Background E-invoice according to EN 16931
With the Growth Opportunities Act, the government has already laid the groundwork for introducing mandatory use of e-invoices for VAT purposes starting on 1 January 2025.
From 1 January 2025, all companies in the domestic B2B sector will be obliged to receive and process electronic invoices in accordance with new requirements.
From 1 January 2027, all companies with an annual turnover of more than €800,000 in the domestic B2B sector will be required to send, receive and process electronic invoices in accordance with new regulations.
From 1 January 2028, all companies, regardless of their annual turnover, in the domestic B2B sector will be obliged to send, receive and process electronic invoices in accordance with new requirements.
Status at Telekom Germany GmbH:
01.12.2024 Receipt of e-invoices possible
The provision of e-bills in accordance with the requirements of the Growth Opportunities Act must be implemented by 1 January 2027 at the latest.
We are currently working on a project to implement this requirement. Implementation in the various products and tariffs will take place in 2025 and 2026.