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Sara
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In an increasingly digital world, efficient and secure invoicing is essential for businesses. Peppol is an international network that simplifies this process by allowing companies and governments to communicate securely via e-invoicing. But what exactly is Peppol, and why is it mandatory for freelancers and entrepreneurs working for the government? In this article we explain it.
Peppol (Pan-European Public Procurement OnLine) is a standardised network for electronic invoicing and document exchange between businesses and governments. This system was developed to reduce administrative burdens and increase efficiency when sending and receiving invoices. Peppol uses a standardised format, allowing invoices to be processed directly in accounting software and ERP systems without manual input.
Yes, Peppol is mandatory for freelancers and companies that send invoices to the Dutch government. The government only accepts e-invoices and uses Peppol as the standard for digital invoicing. This means that if you carry out an assignment for a government body as a freelancer, you must send your invoice via Peppol.
There are two ways to do this:
1. Via Peppol - You register with a Peppol Access Point and send your invoices electronically via this network.
2. Via the Supplier Portal - If you only occasionally send an invoice to the government, you can use the free Supplier Portal. Here you manually enter your invoice, which is then sent in the correct e-invoicing format. You can also use this if your accounting or ERP system does not support Peppol, see here for an overview.
Peppol operates via a secure network of accredited service providers, also known as Peppol Access Points. Entrepreneurs and organisations that register with Peppol receive a unique identifier, the Peppol ID. Via a Peppol Access Point, companies can securely exchange invoices and other documents with other registered businesses and government bodies, regardless of which accounting or ERP system they use.
The main benefits of Peppol:
Security and reliability - Peppol operates via secure and certified networks, ensuring reliable data exchange.
Efficiency and cost savings - Because invoices are processed automatically, you save time and reduce the chance of errors.
International standard - Peppol is recognised and used in multiple countries, making it ideal for international trade.
Mandatory for government contracts - In the Netherlands, e-invoicing via Peppol is already mandatory for companies and freelancers doing business with the government.
You can now only send electronic invoices to the national government, known as e-invoicing. Entrepreneurs who only occasionally send an invoice to the government can enter their invoices via a dedicated Supplier Portal. From this portal the invoice is sent as an electronic invoice to the relevant government body. There is no charge for using the portal.
You can easily register at leveranciersportaal.rijksinkopen.nl:
1. Choose Register on the home screen of the Supplier Portal.
2. Enter your company name and email address and create a password.
3. When logging in you will receive a unique code at your email address for verification.
4. The first time you enter your VAT number and your bank account.
An e-invoice must meet the same requirements as a regular invoice. In addition, the Organisation Identification Number (OIN) of the client must be included. You can look up the OIN number of the relevant government body here.
Many companies are switching to e-invoicing to reduce costs and administrative burdens. Peppol offers a standardised solution that integrates seamlessly with existing accounting software. This means spending less time on manual input and more focus on your core activities.
In addition, Peppol is increasingly being made mandatory by companies and governments. If you already use Peppol, you are not at risk of falling behind on legislation and regulations and can easily do business with other parties within the network.
Do you want to use Peppol for your business? Then you need to register with an accredited Peppol Access Point provider. In the Netherlands there are various providers offering Peppol services, often integrated in accounting and invoicing software. After registration you receive a Peppol ID and can start sending and receiving e-invoices via the network.
Peppol is an efficient, secure and international standard for e-invoicing and mandatory for freelancers and businesses working for the government. It helps companies streamline their administrative processes and provides a reliable way to exchange digital invoices. With increasing digitalisation and the obligation for certain sectors, it is smart for entrepreneurs in this sector to consider Peppol. By joining Peppol or an accounting or ERP system you are ready for the future of digital invoicing.