The e-invoicing process
As tax reforms gain momentum and efforts to narrow the Value Added Tax (VAT) collection gap intensify, the implementation of e-invoicing mandates becomes increasingly prominent. Businesses in France must now report invoicing, transaction, and payment data to the Tax Administration. While this process can be costly initially, there are many benefits to consolidating, refining, and digitizing processes.
The 3 methods for processing electronic invoices
Public Invoicing Portal (PPF)
Connect directly to the PPF, Chorus Pro, which transmits data to the Tax Administration and connects with the B2G e-invoicing hub. Direct platform access is available through the web portal, API, or EDI.
Partner Dematerialisation Platform (PDP)
Use a PDP, a registered private platform that issues and receives e-invoices directly with a counterparty’s service provider if it’s also a PDP. The PDP operator forwards invoicing data to the PPF.
Dematerialising operator (OD)
Use an OD, a non-certified provider who digitizes invoices into one of the three government-standardized formats and connects to the PPF or another PDP platform on behalf of the service provider.
How to prepare for the e-invoicing mandate
1. Audit existing processes
Start by reviewing existing business processes and how current systems and applications support e-invoicing capabilities and the ability to report all domestic and international transactions. Audit your invoice volumes with customers and suppliers to determine the scope of automation needed.
2. Define a solution
Determine your method for processing electronic invoices, whether a PDP, OD, or connection directly through the PPF via portal, API, or EDI. Secure pricing for implementation based on the chosen connection method and establish a project schedule to ensure a seamless transition.
3. Collect required data
Get into the practice of collecting the mandated data for each invoice. There are 24 fields required, which include tax identifiers, country, transaction category (goods, services, or both), issue date, delivery date, discount information, invoice amounts with VAT broken out by VAT rate, and more.
4. Don’t delay
Although there have been delays in mandate implementation, ViDA (VAT in the Digital Age) proposals will become mandatory in 2028. Do not wait until the last minute—this project will impact many areas of a business and will need to be done in several stages. Take advantage of the extra time.
Conga’s automated billing software
Grow revenue with multiple business models like subscription services, usage-based services, physical goods, and professional services while providing flexible billing on a single invoice. Conga Billing receives information from order capture and orchestration solutions across channels, so you have the flexibility to invoice for full orders, partial orders, or pending orders. Also, Conga synchronizes with enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions and accounting systems to enable auditing, streamline financial reporting, and improve compliance.
Billing
Automatically generate invoices from assets ordered, quoted, or contracted on a defined schedule or ad hoc.
Subscription management
Leverage multiple models like subscription services, usage-based services, physical goods, and more.
Invoicing
Invoice per your customers’ requests with customizable billing for full orders, partial orders, or split orders.
Single view
Use the order dashboard to view order details, including order header, order lines, fulfillment lines, and more.
Learn how Conga can help you comply
Conga’s open, flexible, and high-performance solution unifies, automates, and standardizes revenue processes across all teams.