Fiscal digitalization in Spain is advancing rapidly, bringing with it concepts that are often confused: B2B electronic invoicing and the VeriFactu system. Although both are part of the modernization driven by the Crea y Crece Law, their objectives and operation are distinct. As a tax expert, I'll clarify the key differences so your business is prepared for 2027.
What is B2B Electronic Invoicing?
B2B (Business-to-Business) electronic invoicing refers to the obligation to issue and receive invoices in electronic format between companies and self-employed individuals (freelancers/sole traders). Its main goal is to streamline commercial transactions, reduce costs, and improve administrative efficiency. Currently, it's already mandatory for dealings with Public Administration and, according to the Crea y Crece Law, it will progressively become mandatory for all transactions between companies and freelancers in the near future. The most common format is Facturae, but the regulation allows other structured formats.
What is the VeriFactu System?
The VeriFactu system, also known as "Verifiable Invoice Issuance Systems," is a key component of the Anti-Fraud Law. Its purpose is to combat tax fraud by ensuring that all invoices issued by companies and freelancers are unalterable, secure, and reported to the Tax Agency (AEAT) in real-time or near real-time. This is achieved through software that generates a record of each invoice, including a digital signature and a QR code, which the AEAT can verify.
Key Differences: They Are Not the Same
While both aim for digitalization, their approaches are distinct:
1. Main Objective:
* B2B Electronic Invoicing: To streamline and standardize commercial relationships between businesses.
* VeriFactu: To prevent tax fraud and ensure the integrity of invoicing records, with direct control by the AEAT.
2. Scope of Application:
* B2B Electronic Invoicing: Only affects transactions between businesses and freelancers.
* VeriFactu: Affects *all* invoices issued by businesses and freelancers, including B2C (Business-to-Consumer) and simplified invoices.
3. Reporting to the AEAT:
* B2B Electronic Invoicing: Does not necessarily imply direct, real-time reporting to the AEAT, but rather an exchange between parties.
* VeriFactu: Requires near-instantaneous reporting of each invoice to the AEAT, with validation of its integrity.
4. Technical Requirements:
* B2B Electronic Invoicing: Focuses on the invoice exchange format (Facturae, XML, etc.).
* VeriFactu: Requires the invoicing software to comply with very specific technical specifications, ensuring unalterability and the submission of a record to the AEAT.
Deadlines and Preparation
The implementation of VeriFactu is imminent. Companies have a deadline of January 1, 2027, while freelancers and micro-SMEs must adapt before July 1, 2027. It's crucial to start preparing now. If you want to know more about when VeriFactu is mandatory, we recommend consulting our detailed guide.
Your invoicing software must be VeriFactu-compatible. This implies the need for an ERP VeriFactu integration or the use of a VeriFactu gateway for software. If you currently use programs like Factusol, Sage 50, or Holded, you'll need to ensure they are updated or consider how to import Factusol to VeriFactu, import Sage 50 or import Holded to a compatible solution. The ability to import Excel to VeriFactu will also be key for many SMEs during the transition. Development companies are already working on the API VeriFactu to facilitate these adaptations.
At Fakturia.es, we are ready to support you through this transition. Our invoicing software is designed to comply with the Anti-Fraud Law and the future requirements of VeriFactu, making your invoice management simple and secure. Prepare for the fiscal future with the peace of mind of having an adapted system.