E-invoicing in 2025: Preparing for changes ahead

The drive towards digitalisation is intensifying, particularly in accounting. While e-invoicing isn't currently mandatory for all businesses in the UK, significant changes are on the horizon. The UK government has announced plans to launch a consultation in early 2025 to establish standards for the adoption of electronic invoicing (e-invoicing) within the UK.

This consultation aims to gather input from businesses on how HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) can support investment in and encourage e-invoicing uptake. The goal is to significantly reduce administrative tasks, improve cash flow, boost productivity, introduce automation, and reduce errors in tax returns - all helping to close the tax gap.

Although no detailed e-invoicing proposals have yet been issued, businesses operating in the UK should be aware that the adoption of mandatory e-invoicing would be a significant development, which would likely have far-reaching implications.

What is an e-invoice?

An e-invoice is an electronic invoice format designed specifically to meet the demands of digital accounting. Unlike traditional PDF invoices, which are simply readable documents, an e-invoice is built on a structured XML format, optimised for automated processing.

Key features of e-invoices:

• Structured data format: Information such as invoice numbers, amounts, and payment terms are machine-readable and can be imported directly into accounting systems.
• Standardisation: It complies with European standard EN 16931, enabling its use across Europe.
• Error reduction: Automated processing minimises input errors and speeds up workflows.

What’s new at Mainteny?

To help businesses embrace digitalisation and prepare for future requirements, we’ve enhanced our software with a flexible e-invoicing feature. You now have four invoicing options:

1. PDF
2. X-Invoice (XML)
3. PDF & X-Invoice (XML)
4. Post

How does it work?

Mainteny makes it simple:

• Client Preferences: Set your preferred invoice format for each client. Mainteny checks which format your client requires and automatically generates the correct document.
• User-Friendly Platform: Everything is handled through our intuitive platform. No technical expertise is needed—just click "Send Invoice," and Mainteny takes care of the rest.
• Customisation: You remain in control and can customise the format for each client as needed.

Your benefits with Mainteny

1. Efficiency boost: Save time and reduce errors with automated invoicing and structured data formats.
2. Customer-centric: Ensure your invoices are always delivered in the preferred format for your clients.
3. Future-ready: Adopt digital tools that position your business for any upcoming regulatory changes.

The future of invoicing

Mainteny is dediated to helping service companies work smarter and more efficiently. With our new e-invoicing feature, you'll be ready to embrace digitalisation, simplify your workflow, and future-proof your invoicing processes.

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