As of Jan. 1, 2026, the Electronic billing via PEPPOL mandatory for all Belgian B2B transactions. This may sound technical or far-fetched, but actually it is just the next logical step in the digitization of your administration. And above all: it offers more opportunities than headaches.
Yet the same questions and concerns often crop up. This is understandable, because there are many misunderstandings surrounding e-invoicing. In this article we debunk the five most common misunderstandings about PEPPOL and explain why this change is positive for your company.
Misconception 1: "Sending an invoice in PDF by mail is also e-invoicing."
→ Error: digital transmission does not equal electronic billing.
A PDF invoice may be digital, but it is still a "flat" image of your invoice. Your customer or accountant still has to manual processing. Compare it to a picture of a contract versus a structured file where every field is neatly in place.
True e-invoicing happens in a standardized format (such as UBL, for example), and is sent via a secure network such as PEPPOL. This allows your invoice to be processed automatically by your client's software, without someone having to retype or check anything.
The benefits? Fewer errors, faster payments and much more efficient administration.
Misconception 2: "PEPPOL is only relevant to large corporations."
→ Wrong: Small business owners and SMEs should also jump on the bandwagon.
It is true that large companies and governments were the first to adopt PEPPOL. But as of January 1, 2026 Does the obligation for any company with a Belgian VAT number that invoices other Belgian companies (with a few exceptions).
So that means you need to be prepared even as a local baker, freelancer or small business. Fortunately, numerous user-friendly and affordable software adapted to your needs. Make the analysis of your administrative process and choose the tools that fit your situation.
Misconception 3: "PEPPOL is only required if you bill the government."
→ Error: regulations have expanded from B2G to B2B.
In the past, e-invoicing through PEPPOL was only mandatory when invoicing government agencies (B2G). But that situation has changed. From January 1, 2026, that will also become the norm for transactions between Belgian companies subject to VAT (B2B). So do you invoice another Belgian company with a VAT number? Then you will have to send that invoice via the PEPPOL network.
The reason? Transparency, anti-fraud and modernization of the VAT system throughout Europe. We are evolving step by step towards fully digital and real-time accounting. And that doesn't have to be complicated at all: with good preparation and the right tools, it goes smoothly.
Misconception 4: "E-invoicing is an expensive commitment."
→ The benefits far exceed the costs.
Yes, you will have to invest in software. But that doesn't necessarily cost a lot. Depending on your needs, there are very accessible solutions. And that investment pays for itself quickly:
- You lose less time on administration.
- There is less chance of errors and delays.
- Your accounting is done faster and more accurate.
- You pay less for manual processing.
Misconception 5: "E-invoicing will make my accountant obsolete."
→ Wrong: your accountant actually gets more room to advise you.
Some business owners think that digitization puts their accountant out of business. In reality, it's just the opposite: thanks to e-invoicing, your accountant can more efficient work, with less manual work and better data.
That means less time spent "organizing" documents, and more room for analysis, advice and optimization. E-invoicing thus strengthens the collaboration with your accountant. It makes him or her even more valuable as a sparring partner.
Conclusion: PEPPOL is not a burden, but an opportunity
The mandatory move to e-invoicing through PEPPOL is not a burden, but a opportunity To make your administrative process simplify and to modernize.
So don't be fooled by the misconceptions: e-invoicing doesn't complicate your administration, it actually more efficient, faster and more reliable.
Do you have questions about PEPPOL?
Do not hesitate to contact us!
