LEDES Error: BF109 - This file does not contain the correct number of columns

Confirm the LEDES file you’re using follows the formatting requirements.

LEDES 98B v2 has 24 columns.  

You can find the formatting requirements, plus a sample file here. 

Errors:

• BF109 - This file does not contain the correct number of columns. A LEDES 98B file must contain 24 columns on each line. You can find a sample LEDES 98B file here. Please amend and file, and re-upload.
• BF111 - No invoices have been uploaded. Please see if there is an issue with the file

Troubleshooting LEDES Invoice Upload Errors

If you encounter an error while attempting to upload an LEDES invoice, resubmit a LEDES invoice, or upload a modified or amended LEDES file, the problem is likely related to the data or formatting of your file. Below are common errors you might see, the likely causes, and steps to resolve them.

Error Messages:

1. BF109 - This file does not contain the correct number of columns.

Cause:
This error occurs when the LEDES 98B file you're trying to upload does not have the required 24 columns per line. LEDES 98B files must adhere to specific formatting guidelines, and every line of the file must have exactly 24 columns.

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Open the LEDES 98B file and ensure that each line contains exactly 24 columns.
• Each field in the file should be separated by a delimiter (typically a pipe | or tab). Check for any missing fields, extra fields, or misplaced delimiters.

How to Fix:

• Correct any issues in the file by adding or removing columns as needed. Ensure all required data is entered in the correct columns.
• If you're unsure about the correct format, refer to the sample LEDES 98B file here.
• Once the file has been corrected, re-upload it to Brightflag.

2. BF111 - No invoices have been uploaded.

Cause:
This error typically occurs when the system cannot detect any valid invoices in the file you’re trying to upload. This could be due to missing data or a formatting issue within the file.

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Open the LEDES file and review the invoice data. Ensure the invoice details, such as invoice number, dates, and other required fields, are filled in correctly.
• Check for empty rows or blank fields that might be preventing the system from reading the invoice data.

How to Fix:

• Ensure that all mandatory fields in the invoice are populated with the correct data and in the proper format.
• Remove any unnecessary rows or fix formatting issues that could cause the system to reject the file.
• After making the necessary adjustments, re-upload the file to Brightflag.

By following the steps above, you should be able to resolve the most common LEDES invoice upload errors. If you continue to experience issues, please reach out to Brightflag support for further assistance.

This version highlights the specific error, explains the underlying issue, and provides a clear path for troubleshooting and resolution.