What to do if ELSTER displays the error message: “Number of eAs does not match”

Discrepancy between reporting flow XML and ELSTER form:

This help page explains why the message “Number of eAs does not match” can sometimes appears in ELSTER when importing a reporting flow XML – and how you can fix the error.

Official sources:

• KassenSichV § 4 – Registration of electronic recording systems
• BMF – Cash register reporting obligation and TSE obligation

Background

eAstands for electronic recording systems– in this context, your registered cash registers.

When uploading an XML file, ELSTER checks whether the number of cash registers contained in the file matches the information in the form.

Examples of triggers:

• The XML contains more or fewer cash registers than specified in the ELSTER form
• A cash register entry was accidentally omitted or duplicated in ELSTER
• The wrong XML version was uploaded (old or incomplete version)

Why does the error occur?

If the number of eAs is not synchronized:

• ELSTER cannot clearly assign the data
• The message is considered inconsistent
• The process must be corrected before it can be sent

How to fix the problem

1. Check the XML file:

• Open the XML in a text editor
• Count the <eA> entries (each one represents a cash register)

1. Check the ELSTER form:

• Ensure that exactly the same number of cash registers is created in the form
• Add missing cash registers or remove surplus ones

1. Make corrections:

• If you add entries manually in ELSTER: Adjust the number of XML

If you prefer to start over:

• Cancel the ELSTER process
• Open the reporting flow
• Generate a new XML and import it again

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What if I have deregistered a cash register?

→ The deregistered cash register must still be included in the deregistration list – just with the status “deregistered.”

Can I edit the XML manually in ELSTER?

→ Technically yes, but not recommended – it is better to re-export the file from the reporting flow.

Does this also occur if only the location of a cash register has been changed?

→ No, location changes do not affect the number of eAs.

In summary:

☑️ Error “Number of eAs does not match” = XML and ELSTER form contain different numbers of cash registers

☑️ Always ensure that both match

☑️ If in doubt, restart the process in ELSTER and import the current XML from Meldefluss

Contact & Support

• Meldefluss Support:  help@openfiskal.com (and chat button below)
• Elster portal

Updated on: 15/09/2025