ZUGFeRD 2.3: new standard for electronic invoice exchange
The German Electronic Invoicing Forum (FeRD) and its French counterpart FNFE-MPE presented the new ZUGFeRD 2.3 standard in September 2024. This standard for electronic invoice exchange is available to companies at no cost and allows for more precise mapping of complex e-invoices. This should make electronic invoicing even more efficient and internationally compatible.
Improved interoperability and new features of ZUGFeRD 2.3
The new ZUGFeRD 2.3 standard provides several improvements to facilitate cross-border electronic invoicing within the EU. Version 2.3 is fully compatible with Factur-X, the French e-invoicing standard, ensuring greater interoperability between different countries and systems. Companies can map multiple data formats and detailed transaction information in a single e-invoice.
Benefits of ZUGFeRD 2.3 for companies
- Reduced error rate and faster payment processing: automated processing of electronic invoices minimizes error sources and accelerates the entire invoice verification process. Companies benefit from faster payment processing and optimized workflows
- More flexibility in PROFIL EXTENDED: an important new feature of the PROFIL EXTENDED of ZUGFeRD 2.3 is the option of allowing rounding inaccuracies for complex invoices.
- Legal certainty for e-invoicing in Europe: ZUGFeRD 2.3 meets the requirements of the European standard EN 16391 and ensures that invoices are exchanged securely and in accordance with the law within the EU.
Target group for ZUGFeRD 2.3
- Small and medium-sized companies (SMEs) benefit from the easy implementation and improved automation of electronic invoicing processes.
- Large businesses with international relationships benefit from the improved interoperability between ZUGFeRD and Factur-X. Global invoicing processes can be made more efficient.
- Public administrations and vendors benefit from the EU-wide recognition of ZUGFeRD 2.3: electronic invoice exchange can be seamlessly integrated into existing business processes.
Transition periods and future developments
The previous version ZUGFeRD 2.2 remains valid. However, support will only be provided until September 2025. From January 1, 2025, invoices under ZUGFeRD 1.0 will no longer meet the legal requirements of EN 16931 and will be classified as “other invoices”.
*All information is subject to change.
