E-invoicing for freelancers & small businesses
Even under the small business scheme (§ 19 of the German VAT Act, UStG), you have been required to receive e-invoices since 2025. No subscription, no XML knowledge, ready in a few minutes.
Typical challenges
§ 19 UStG built into the form
The VAT exemption under § 19 UStG is available as a dedicated tax case, so your invoices are labelled correctly with no extra effort.
Suits irregular invoice volumes
Whether you write 2 or 20 invoices a month: you only pay for what you use, with no fixed cost for an accounting package.
Small businesses are affected too
Since 1 January 2025, small businesses must also be able to receive, read and archive e-invoices. Our free checking tool shows you whether an invoice you received is correct.
Frequently asked questions: E-invoicing for freelancers & small businesses
Do I have to issue e-invoices as a small business?
No, not necessarily: small businesses under § 19 UStG are exempt from the obligation to issue a structured e-invoice under § 34a of the German VAT Implementing Ordinance (UStDV) and may continue to send paper or simple PDF invoices. However, even as a small business you have had to be able to receive, read and archive e-invoices since 1 January 2025.
Can I still create e-invoices if I want to?
Yes. Many small businesses issue ZUGFeRD invoices voluntarily because business customers expect it or because it simplifies their own bookkeeping. The small business label under § 19 UStG is set correctly and automatically.
What does it cost if I only write a few invoices a month?
You pay per transaction (creating costs 1 credit, checking including IBAN fraud protection costs 3 credits), no subscription, no base fee. Credits do not expire.
Can I check an e-invoice I received without an account?
Yes. Under “Check e-invoice for free” you upload an invoice you received and see, without an account (just with your email address), whether it complies with EN 16931.