Digitization is gaining momentum in Belgium. By the end of 2024, our country already had 1,299,825 self-employed people, an increase of 1.6% in one year. For all these entrepreneurs, there is now an additional rule: from 1 January 2026, B2B invoices must be sent via Peppol.
The problem? Many small business owners don’t even know what Peppol is, let alone how to get started with it. There’s a good chance that one of your customers isn’t yet using Peppol. This practical guide will help you check whether your customer has a Peppol address, convince them to sign up, and avoid chaos with duplicate invoices.
How can you tell if your customer is already using Peppol?
There are two quick ways to find out if your customer already has a Peppol ID and is therefore connected to the network.
Via Dexxter, you can immediately see whether your customer already has a Peppol ID or not. The software clearly displays this information. You will see a green screen if the customer’s invoices are received through Peppol or a red screen if this is not yet the case. This saves you time searching and gives you immediate clarity when sending invoices.
You can search manually via the Peppol Directory. Search for the customer by name or company number in the official Peppol Directory. Use the format ‘0208:CBE number’ or ‘9925:VAT number’. This method works well if you want to double-check whether a specific customer is already registered.
How do you convince a customer who is not yet using Peppol?
Give an explanation of the concrete benefits. Peppol invoices are automatically imported into your customer’s accounting package, saving them time and money and reducing errors. The government is actively encouraging this digitization because it ensures faster payments and less fraud. Use these arguments in your communication, because they directly address what every entrepreneur considers important: efficiency and cost control.
Refer to a step-by-step plan or go to Dexxter. Entrepreneurs can find concrete instructions on how to connect in the Peppol Directory and with their software supplier. A short, friendly email with clear instructions and a personal message works wonders. For example, refer to the three major advantages: efficiency, security, and widespread acceptance by all Belgian companies.
How do you prevent duplicate invoices?
Select one channel and stick to it. Use Peppol as standard once your customer is connected. Never send a PDF and an e-invoice at the same time, as this only causes confusion and double accounting work for your customer.
Fully integrate your administration. An integrated solution such as Dexxter automatically converts quotations into invoices and invoices into bookings, without you having to retype anything. This saves a lot of time and prevents errors that occur during manual entries.
Start checking now
By checking now which customers are already using Peppol and adding the others step by step, you will avoid stress when the law actually comes into force in 2026. Make it practical: check the directory regularly, pay attention to the green icons in your software, and communicate clearly about the benefits for your customers.
This way, you will not only be ready for the future of e-invoicing, but you will also help your customers with their digitalization. A win-win situation that will only strengthen your business relationship.
