The Spanish tax landscape is undergoing an unprecedented digital transformation. As we approach 2027, two concepts resonate strongly among freelancers and SMEs: B2B electronic invoicing and the VeriFactu system. While both aim to modernize invoicing and combat fraud, understanding their differences is crucial for compliance with new obligations.
What is B2B Electronic Invoicing?
The obligation for B2B (Business-to-Business) electronic invoicing stems from Law 18/2022, on the Creation and Growth of Companies (the "Crea y Crece" Law). Its main objective is to foster digitalization, reduce late payments, and improve the traceability of commercial operations between companies and professionals.
This regulation requires all transactions between businesses and professionals to be carried out using electronic invoices, ensuring interoperability between the technological solutions used. Implementation will be progressive, first affecting large companies, then SMEs and freelancers.
What is VeriFactu?
On the other hand, the VeriFactu system (also known as the "verifiable invoicing" system) arises from Law 11/2021, on measures to prevent and combat tax fraud (the Anti-Fraud Law). Its purpose is radically different: to ensure the integrity, immutability, and traceability of invoicing records, by securely and continuously sending all invoice data issued by taxpayers to the AEAT (Spanish Tax Agency).
VeriFactu is not limited to B2B operations; it affects all invoices issued, including B2C (Business-to-Consumer) transactions. Its core principle is the inviolability of records, preventing data manipulation and double accounting.
Key Differences Between B2B Electronic Invoicing and VeriFactu
Although complementary, these two regulations operate under distinct principles:
* Legal Basis and Objective:
* B2B Electronic Invoicing: "Crea y Crece" Law. Seeks to digitalize and improve efficiency in B2B commercial relationships.
* VeriFactu: Anti-Fraud Law. Its goal is to combat tax fraud through real-time control and verification of all invoices.
* Scope of Operations:
* B2B Electronic Invoicing: Only transactions between businesses and professionals (B2B).
* VeriFactu: All sales and service operations, both B2B and B2C.
* Technical Requirements:
* B2B Electronic Invoicing: Focuses on the interoperability of formats (like Facturae) and connections between platforms.
* VeriFactu: Implies that invoicing software must be "VeriFactu" or a "Verifiable IT System," ensuring the integrity of records and their automatic or semi-automatic submission to the AEAT, either through a VeriFactu gateway for software or directly via VeriFactu API.
Deadlines and Preparation: The Time is Now!
As of August 2, 2026, the deadlines are fast approaching. VeriFactu becomes mandatory on January 1, 2027 for companies and on July 1, 2027 for freelancers (sole traders) and micro-SMEs. It is crucial for VeriFactu for freelancers to prepare.
To adapt, it's vital to evaluate your current invoicing system. If you use programs like Factusol, Sage 50, Holded, or even manage your invoices in Excel, you'll need to consider a VeriFactu ERP integration or migrate to a compatible solution. The ability to import Factusol to VeriFactu, import Sage 50, import Holded, or import Excel to VeriFactu will be key for a smooth transition. You can find more information on when VeriFactu is mandatory.
In summary, while B2B electronic invoicing promotes digitalization in the business sector, VeriFactu stands as the pillar of the fight against tax fraud, demanding strict control over every invoice. Both are mandatory and require technological adaptation.
At Fakturia.es, we are aware of these challenges. That's why we have developed intuitive and robust invoicing software, fully adapted to the Anti-Fraud Law and VeriFactu requirements, so your business can comply with all regulations without complications.