E-Invoicing
Everything You Need to Know About E-Invoicing and Peppol as an Entrepreneur
The Future of Invoicing is Digital
E-invoicing is on the rise and is increasingly becoming mandatory. In Belgium, e-invoicing via Peppol will be mandatory for all B2B invoices starting January 1, 2026. Therefore, it is crucial for entrepreneurs to switch in time. In this guide, you’ll easily discover what e-invoicing is, how the Peppol network works, and why you should get started today. In other words: now is the perfect time to modernize your administration.
What is an E-Invoice? How Can You Recognize an E-Invoice?
At first glance, an e-invoice may look like a standard PDF, but behind the scenes, it contains structured data in a format like UBL. This allows accounting software to automatically read and process the information.
Simply put: an e-invoice is not just a regular PDF or paper invoice. It is a structured digital file (usually in UBL format) that can be automatically read and processed by accounting software. Although it often looks like a regular PDF to the user, it contains underlying data that software can interpret effortlessly. As a result, you avoid errors, speed up processing, and significantly reduce administrative burden.
Key Benefits of E-Invoicing:
In summary, e-invoicing offers numerous benefits:
- Fully automated processing
- Lower risk of errors
- Better payment tracking
- Faster payment terms
- Time and cost savings
What is Peppol? What Exactly Does Peppol Do?
Peppol (Pan-European Public Procurement OnLine) is a secure international network that connects businesses, accountants, and governments. In other words: you can think of it as a digital highway where each business is connected through a unique digital mailbox. From these mailboxes, e-invoices are sent safely, quickly, and correctly to each other. This way, invoices always reach the right recipient without the need for email or paper.
How Does It Work?
Each participant in the Peppol network has a unique Peppol ID (usually the company number). When you create an e-invoice, it is sent through a certified access point to the Peppol network. In short, the system ensures a smooth, digital flow of invoices.
From Invoice to Accounting: Here’s How It Works
Specifically: the invoice automatically ends up in your client’s software system. Furthermore, the accountant can retrieve this data in the background and automatically import and process it in their accounting software. This results in faster, more accurate processing with no manual intervention. In other words: time saved and greater accuracy.
Is E-Invoicing Mandatory?
Absolutely. In Belgium, e-invoicing via Peppol will be mandatory from 01/01/2026 for B2B invoicing. That’s why it’s important to act now. Entrepreneurs who switch in time are not only prepared but can also benefit from a 120% investment deduction in 2025.
Why Entrepreneurs Shouldn’t Wait
The benefits are clear. Just think:
- You work more efficiently
- You comply with legal requirements
- You appear more professional
- You stay ahead in digitalization
- You qualify for tax incentives
We Help You with E-Invoicing via Peppol
As an accounting firm, we guide you step by step. In other words: we take the work off your hands.
- Activation on the Peppol network
- Integration with your invoicing software
- Tailored advice for your business
- Support and follow-up
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Multiple Access Points to Connect to Peppol? No, a company can only be connected to the Peppol network through one access point. This means you can only work with one provider or software partner at a time to send and receive invoices via Peppol. If you want to switch, you must first deactivate your current connection.
Do I Need to Adjust My Invoicing Software? Many popular platforms like Billit, Sumrise, and OkiOki already support Peppol. Feel free to ask us for advice if you’re unsure. In other words: chances are, you’re already ready for e-invoicing.
Can I Both Send and Receive E-Invoices? Absolutely. Peppol allows you to both receive and send e-invoices, streamlining administration on both ends. Additionally, this results in fewer manual errors.
What If My Client Doesn’t Use Peppol Yet? No problem. You can still send them an invoice by email or PDF until they are also connected to the network. However, we recommend encouraging clients to join so they too can benefit from the advantages.
Contact us today for a free introductory consultation.
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