E-invoicing & Peppol2026-01-13T17:42:00+01:00

As of Jan. 1, 2026, electronic invoicing will become mandatory for all transactions between Belgian companies subject to VAT. Sending invoices in PDF format will no longer be permitted. But how can you prepare for this change?

What is e-invoicing?

Electronic invoicing or e-invoicing refers to the electronic sending, receiving, processing and storing of invoices. Invoices must be saved as xml files in UBL (Universal Business Language) format.

Efacturatie_peppol_wat_is_peppol

What is Peppol?

E-invoice exchange occurs via Peppol, which stands for Pan-European Public Procurement OnLine. This is the standardized European network that enables companies to exchange documents efficiently and easily. To access the Peppol network, you need an Access Point provider (e.g. Billit) through which you can securely send and receive invoices.

What are the benefits of Peppol?

  • Speed and efficiency
    Digital invoices are automatically recognized and processed, resulting in smoother administration and faster processing times. Shorter turnaround times, in turn, have a positive impact on your cash flow.

  • Fewer errors & greater security
    Because everything is handled digitally, there is less manual input required, significantly reducing the risk of errors. This also helps prevent invoice fraud.

  • Cost-savings
    Less paper and less manual processing lead to lower administrative costs.

  • International standard
    Since every European company will follow this standard, companies no longer have to worry about system compatibility.

How do I implement Peppol within my company?

My_Baker_Tilly

Fully Peppol compliant with
My Baker Tilly

My Baker Tilly centralises all your accounting data and documents in one place. This user-friendly platform – built on the technology of our partner Billit – provides you with a clear overview of your administration, easy management and valuable insight into your financial figures.

What are the benefits of
My Baker Tilly?

  • Invoice exchange via Peppol
  • Automatic recognition of incoming invoices

  • Creation of quotes, purchase orders and subscriptions
  • Mobile app and integration with banking and accounting software

  • QR payment & XML export

Frequently asked questions about Peppol

Is the invoice date through Peppol the effective shipping date or can I determine it myself when creating the invoice?2025-12-10T09:23:01+01:00

Once an invoice is sent via Peppol, it can no longer be modified. The invoice date must be correct at the moment of creation and transmission.

Can invoice attachments be sent via Peppol?2025-12-09T13:40:46+01:00

Yes. Attachments can be included within the XML structure of the electronic invoice. Supported file formats include PDF, XML, PNG, and TXT. Attachments cannot be sent separately from the invoice.

Are syndicate companies covered by the Peppol obligation?2025-12-09T13:40:46+01:00

Syndicus companies are subject to VAT and must also switch to Peppol.

Is Peppol also mandatory for liberal professions without VAT obligation?2025-12-09T13:40:46+01:00

The Peppol obligation applies only to companies subject to VAT. Liberal professions who are exempt from VAT are not subject to the Peppol obligation. For mixed VAT taxpayers, the obligation only applies to their VAT taxable activities.

How can I check whether a company is connected to the Peppol network?2025-12-09T13:40:47+01:00

You can verify whether a customer is registered on Peppol through the following websites:

Is there a transition period provided?2025-12-09T13:40:47+01:00

The FPS Finance has announced a tolerance period during the first three months of 2026 to help businesses adapt to the new e-invoicing requirements. During this period, no penalties will be imposed for non-compliance, provided that companies can demonstrate they made timely and reasonable efforts to comply.

Please note that this is not a deferral of the obligation but a temporary leniency period.

Do I have to send all invoices via Peppol starting in 2026?2025-12-09T13:41:55+01:00

Yes, as of January 1, 2026, all VAT registered companies in Belgium are required to use structured electronic invoices for B2B transactions.

What if a VAT-registered customer is not connected to Peppol?2025-12-09T13:40:49+01:00

Is the customer not yet connected? Then inform him about the Peppol obligation and encourage him to register in a timely manner. If he fails to do so, he runs the risk of fines.

What are the penalties if I don’t switch to e-invoicing?2025-12-09T13:40:49+01:00

Non-compliance may result in the following administrative fines:

  • First offense: €1,500
  • Second offense: €3,000
  • Third offense: €5,000

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