7 Common Causes & Solutions
QR code printed too small
Solution: Maintain minimum size of 2×2 cm. For PDFs: minimum 150 DPI print quality.
Poor lighting when scanning
Solution: Set screen brightness to maximum. Avoid reflections. Prefer indirect lighting.
Wrong distance to the QR code
Solution: Optimal distance: 15–30 cm. Neither too close nor too far.
Banking app does not support GiroCode
Solution: Check whether your app supports SEPA-QR/EPC. All major German banks (Sparkasse, ING, DKB, Volksbank, Commerzbank) support the standard.
QR code contains invalid IBAN
Solution: Validate IBAN with an IBAN checker. Our generator validates IBANs automatically (Mod-97).
QR code is damaged or blurry
Solution: Re-create the code. Use error correction level H for printed codes.
Wrong app setting
Solution: Look in the app menu for "Transfer" → "QR Code". In some apps found under "Scan".
Most GiroCode problems can be solved within minutes. If your banking app does not support GiroCodes at all, you can find an overview of all compatible banking apps in our knowledge section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my banking app not scanning the GiroCode?
The most common causes: app does not support the EPC standard, QR code too small (min. 2×2 cm), poor lighting, or wrong scan area in the app (look under "Transfer" → "QR Code").
How large must a GiroCode be when printed?
At least 2×2 cm. Recommended: 3×3 cm on invoices. Below 2×2 cm the camera cannot reliably read the code.
Can I scan a GiroCode with a regular camera app?
No, regular QR code scanners do not recognize the EPC content as a bank transfer. You need a banking app or our browser scanner (/scanner).
What to do if the GiroCode shows wrong data after scanning?
Check whether the code was created with a validated IBAN format. Make sure the code was created with an EPC-compatible generator (like ours).