What it means
This rule counts ram:CategoryCode elements within each ram:ApplicableTradeTax under a line's ram:SpecifiedLineTradeSettlement. Each tax block needs exactly one category element for the line VAT information (BG-30). The rule does not check whether the category value is permitted or appropriate. It applies to the Basic and EN 16931 profiles of Factur-X and ZUGFeRD.
Why it matters
The VAT category connects the line's tax treatment to the VAT breakdown. Repeated category elements break the required structure even if they contain the same value.
How to fix it
Check the VAT category on the affected invoice line and choose the category that matches the supply, such as S for standard-rated or E for exempt from VAT where appropriate. In XML, add the missing ram:CategoryCode or remove duplicate category elements within the line's ram:ApplicableTradeTax. Export and recheck.
Once the file is corrected, check it again for free: Validate a ZUGFeRD invoice
Or fix the invoice in a form and download the corrected file, for 1 credit: Fix a rejected e-invoice Beta
The rule as published
Element 'ram:CategoryCode' must occur exactly 1 times. Where this rule applies
| Rule set | Version |
|---|---|
| Factur-X 1.09 BASIC | 1.0.9-2 |
| Factur-X 1.09 EN 16931 | 1.0.9-2 |
| ZUGFeRD 2.5 BASIC | 2.5.2 |
| ZUGFeRD 2.5 EN 16931 | 2.5.2 |
Check your file
Drop your e-invoice to see whether FX-SCH-A-000536 still fails, and which other rules do.
Related rules
- FX-SCH-A-000537 Use a valid VAT category code on the line
- FX-SCH-A-000538 Use an allowed tax type code on the line
- FX-SCH-A-000539 Add the line period end date's format attribute
- FX-SCH-A-000540 Use a permitted line period end date format code
- FX-SCH-A-000541 Add the line period start date's format attribute
- FX-SCH-A-000542 Use a permitted line period start date format code