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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between ZUGFeRD and XRechnung?​

ZUGFeRD is a hybrid format combining PDF/A3 and embedded XML. It provides both human-readable and machine-readable data.

XRechnung is a pure XML format, strictly compliant with EN16931 and required for public procurement in Germany.

Use ZUGFeRD if visual presentation is needed. Use XRechnung for government/public sector compliance.

When should I use ZUGFeRD 2 vs XRechnung?​

Use ZUGFeRD 2 when your recipient accepts PDF with embedded XML (e.g., SME or B2B).

Use XRechnung when sending to public authorities in Germany. It is the legally required format for public procurement.

What is the difference between UBL and CII?​

UBL (Universal Business Language): XML format widely adopted internationally, simple and developer-friendly.

CII (Cross Industry Invoice): More granular, flexible structure by UN/CEFACT, compatible with EN16931, suitable for complex invoices.

Both can be used under EN16931, but UBL is more common in broader e-invoicing contexts.

Do I need an API key to use the faktoora API?​

Yes. You must obtain an API key via your faktoora account dashboard. All API requests require this key via Authorization header.

How do I receive notifications when an invoice is ready?​

You can either poll the GET /invoices/{faktooraId} endpoint or register a webhook URL to get notified automatically when invoice generation is completed.

Which delivery methods are supported?​

faktoora supports sending invoices via:

  • Email (using faktoora SMTP or custom SMTP)
  • PEPPOL (for compliant B2B/B2G delivery)

Manual confirmation is required for invoices created in draft or review mode.

How do I test the API?​

You can test the API by using tools like Postman or curl with your faktoora API key. We currently do not provide a sandbox URL; use production with test data.

What happens if an imported invoice is invalid?​

faktoora validates all incoming invoices. If the document is invalid, it is automatically rejected and an error report is sent to the original sender.

Can I approve incoming invoices in multiple steps?​

Yes. faktoora supports multi-step approval workflows (e.g., 4-eyes principle) for received invoices in the UI.

What formats can I retrieve an invoice in?​

You can use GET /invoices/{faktooraId} to retrieve the invoice as ZUGFeRD PDF or EN16931 XML.