The release of the new ZUGFeRD version 2.3 in September 2024 represents a crucial step towards improving and harmonizing e-invoices. As a leading provider of e-invoicing solutions, Retarus welcomes the updates and supports companies in benefiting fully from the opportunities offered by the new standard.
ZUGFeRD 2.3 – a significant step for e-invoicing
Developed by the Forum for Electronic Invoicing Germany (Forum elektronische Rechnung Deutschland – FeRD) in conjunction with its French counterpart FNFE-MPE, ZUGFeRD version 2.3 introduces numerous enhancements, especially with regard to the statutory requirements for B2B e-invoicing. This version is based on the EU EN 16931 standard, which lays the foundations for the cross-border exchange of electronic invoices. The standard is not only significant for the European market, but also for complying with the forthcoming legal requirements for e-invoicing in Germany and France set to come into force from 2025.
One of the most important updates in ZUGFeRD 2.3 is a change in the validation process for the “EXTENDED” profile. This now supports permissible rounding inaccuracies, also known as slack, and no longer automatically recognizes negligible deviations in tax amounts as errors – for instance, a gross price of €9.99 which can’t be presented as a net price with two decimal positions and 19% VAT. You can read about these changes in more detail in the official FeRD announcement.
Benefits for companies
The new version of ZUGFeRD simplifies the exchange of electronic invoices both nationally and internationally. Businesses already using ZUGFeRD would be well advised to switch over to version 2.3 as soon as possible, as the previous version 2.2 will only be supported for one more year. Integrating the new version is especially beneficial for German and French companies, as they can be sure of fulfilling the requirements of both the German Federal Ministry of Finance and the French tax authorities.
ZUGFeRD and Factur-X are based on a hybrid format which contains a PDF file convenient for humans to read as well as an embedded machine-readable XML file. This ensures the interoperability between different IT systems and facilitates the seamless processing of electronic invoices, thereby reducing manual efforts significantly and minimizing sources of error.
Retarus supports your business
With Retarus, you’re perfectly prepared for the new version of ZUGFeRD. We take care of all necessary format and certificate changes. Our state-of-the-art e-invoicing solutions are in full compliance with the new statutory requirements and moreover offer a host of other advantages. This includes the opportunity to fully automate the processing of invoices, optimize workflows, and shorten processing times dramatically. Changing over to ZUGFeRD 2.3 is a vital step towards a successful future. And with Retarus’ solutions, you can ensure that the transition is smooth and trouble-free.
A single solution for all requirements and communication channels
Retarus E-Invoicing is a cost-efficient SaaS solution, developed with EDI DNA and more than 27 years’ experience. It complies with international regulations and meets the highly diverse technical requirements in different countries. As a certified PEPPOL Access Point and member of several local e-invoicing associations, Retarus offers its customers legally compliant e-invoicing for B2G, B2B, and B2C around the globe, always in compliance with international standards.
Find out more about Retarus E-Invoicing on our website or directly from your local Retarus representative.
