Digital invoicing via Peppol: are you ready?
From January 1, 2026, digital invoicing via Peppol becomes mandatory for all Belgian VAT payers. So chances are high you’ll have to comply. But what exactly does that mean? And what should you do now to prepare? Here’s everything laid out for you.
1. What is Peppol?
Peppol stands for Pan-European Public Procurement On-Line. It’s a secure network enabling businesses and governments across Europe to exchange digital invoices. These invoices aren’t PDFs, but structured XML files in UBL format—meaning they can be automatically read and processed.
You’re not sending a normal attachment, but a fully machine-readable invoice that your recipient’s accounting software can instantly identify and process.
2. What’s the difference between a PDF and a genuine e‑invoice?
A PDF invoice often needs manual handling—time-consuming and error-prone. On the other hand, a Peppol e‑invoice includes all required data in a standardized format, ready for automation. This makes the invoicing process faster, more efficient, and more reliable.
3. Who is required to use Peppol?
Currently, the obligation applies to anyone invoicing the Flemish or federal government. Since March 1, 2024, it has been extended to all public-sector entities (B2G) and for invoices above €3,000 (e.g. intermunicipal organizations, hospitals, schools, cultural centers).
From January 1, 2026, Peppol becomes mandatory for every Belgian VAT-registered entity, including self‑employed individuals, SMEs, and freelancers. Belgium is taking the lead in Europe as part of broader EU plans to have e‑invoicing in place by 2028.
4. What are the benefits of Peppol e‑invoicing?
✔ Time-savings
Invoices processed in minutes, not days.
Invoices processed in minutes, not days.
✔ Faster payments
Quicker processing gets you paid sooner.
Quicker processing gets you paid sooner.
✔ Better financial insight
Your bookkeeping is always up‑to‑date, no manual work.
Your bookkeeping is always up‑to‑date, no manual work.
✔ Better financial insight
Fewer errors, less admin, clearer overview.
Fewer errors, less admin, clearer overview.
✔ Transparency
E‑invoices are clearly structured, line‑item readable.
E‑invoices are clearly structured, line‑item readable.
✔ Stronger cooperation
Peppol streamlines comms between companies and governments.
Peppol streamlines comms between companies and governments.
✔ Security
All data is exchanged safely through controlled channels
All data is exchanged safely through controlled channels
5. What if you're not ready yet?
No worries—PIA’s digital transformation team is here to help.
They’ll check whether your current accounting, ERP, or invoicing software is Peppol‑compatible. If not, they’ll tailor a solution within your budget so that you’re fully prepared by 2026—without stress.
6. Need help? We’re ready for you.
Want to start using Peppol e‑invoicing but not sure where to begin? Their digital experts guide you step by step, from analysis to implementation.
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