Electronic invoicing

Find all the tips and useful information about electronic invoicing.

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Accounting is evolving!

The digitalisation of accounting takes a new step. Since 1 January 2026, electronic invoicing has been mandatory in Belgium for companies and self-employed persons subject to VAT. This reform will soon come into force in Luxembourg!

Electronic invoicing: a turning point for businesses and self-employed professionals

Electronic invoicing falls within a legal framework established by a European directive, leading to the gradual phasing out of PDF invoices sent by email. This development represents a key milestone for professionals.

Electronic invoicing: What is it?

Electronic invoicing (e-invoicing) is transforming the way companies exchange invoices.

The simple PDF sent by email is being replaced by a structured and standardised format (such as XML or UBL), which can be directly processed by accounting software or exchange platforms known as Access Points. The result is a “smart invoice” that includes all legally required information and can be processed automatically.

Unlike a PDF or a paper invoice, an electronic invoice is a standardised document. Software can therefore read and integrate the information automatically, making processing faster and less prone to human error.

Electronic invoicing: what is it for?

This reform aims in particular to:

  • Enhance business competitiveness by simplifying invoice processing.
  • Fight against VAT fraud.

Benefits of invoice digitalisation

Electronic invoicing offers numerous advantages:

  • Reduced administrative workload thanks to process automation.
  • Enhanced transaction security through validation mechanisms and traceability.
  • Faster payments, improving companies’ cash flow.

How does it work?

  • The company creates its invoice in its billing software.
  • The software generates a structured invoice (UBL, CII, BIS 3.0 format…).
  • The invoice is sent via a Peppol Access Point.
  • The recipient automatically receives the invoice in their own system.

Thanks to the Peppol network, your electronic invoices are automatically and securely transferred between your “Access Point” and that of your client.

The key dates to support the transition towards electronic invoicing

Implementation timeline for electronic invoicing

Solutions for adopting electronic invoicing

At In Extenso Belux, we support you in setting up compliant tools connected to the Peppol network, in order to streamline your purchasing, sales and accounting processes.

We currently work with three solutions: InexDemat, Odoo, and Falco by Horus.

Support to finance your digital transition

BEFORE THE START OF THE PROJECT

The grant application must be submitted before any technical steps are taken or any solution is selected. This administrative step is essential to ensure eligibility.

In Belgium

Digital maturity voucher

This support covers 50% of the costs related to a digital audit and a digital action plan to support SMEs’ digital transformation. The amount can reach €50 000 (excl. VAT) over three years.

Tax deduction

SMEs and self-employed professionals investing in electronic invoicing can benefit from a 120% tax deduction on eligible costs, valid until the 2027 financial year. This helps reduce the actual cost of implementing an electronic invoicing solution.

In Luxembourg

Investment aid / various investment aid

SMEs may benefit from a subsidy covering between 10% and 20% of their investments in digital or material projects. This aid notably supports the purchase of software, equipment or management tools related to digitalisation.

SME Packages – Digital

This scheme finances up to 70% of the costs related to an SME digitalisation project, such as the acquisition of software or electronic invoicing solutions.
The amount of the grant generally ranges between €3 000 and €25 000 (excl. VAT), depending on the project.

Fit4Digital

This program offers a diagnosis of the digital maturity of SMEs conducted by an accredited consultant. It includes an action plan to support digital transformation, with a cost covered under the FIT4 programs.

Training co-financing

All hours and costs related to internal or external training for SMEs may benefit from a 15% subsidy. This support helps enhance teams’ skills in the use of digital tools.

Do you have any specific questions?

Contact your nearest office to speak with an expert in your sector.

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