Invoice PDF Format - Narrative Line Item Analysis is not Available Invoice PDF Format - Narrative Line Item Analysis is not Available

Invoice PDF Format - Narrative Line Item Analysis is not Available

If an invoice is flagged with "Invoice Narrative Lines & Fee Details Not Formatted Correctly," it means Brightflag could not accurately extract some or all the data from the invoice PDF due to its formatting.


What Causes This Issue?

πŸ“Œ Common Reasons Why Invoices Fail Formatting Checks:

βœ” The invoice uses a customized template rather than a standardized billing format.

βœ” Line items are split into separate tables by timekeeper instead of being in a single consolidated table.

πŸ“Œ Exception: Brightflag allows invoices with fewer than 3 pages of line item details to bypass these formatting rules and still be processed.


How to Resolve This Issue

1️⃣ Reject the Invoice and Request a Corrected Version

If an invoice is flagged due to incorrect formatting:

βœ” Reject the invoice and notify the vendor of the issue.
βœ” Direct them to Brightflag’s PDF Invoice Guidelines for the correct formatting requirements.
πŸ”— PDF Formatting Guidelines

πŸ“Œ Tip: If an invoice previously processed correctly but is now flagged, confirm whether the format has changed or if it deviates from the required structure.

2️⃣ Consider Switching to LEDES 

Brightflag strongly recommends LEDES submissions over PDFs.

βœ” No Formatting Issues: LEDES files follow a standardized structure, eliminating formatting concerns.
βœ” Fewer Errors: Reduces mismatches and missing data errors.
βœ” EBH Integration: Allows direct billing system integration for seamless invoice uploads.


What If My Vendor Cannot Change Their PDF Format?

Brightflag's required PDF invoice format follows a globally recognized standard used by most law firms. Nearly all legal billing software includes the functionality to generate invoices in this format. However, some firms have customized their invoice templates to fit their internal preferences and may be hesitant to adjust their format.