E-invoicing and UBL: what is it and when do you need it?
More and more you hear the term e-invoice or UBL. Your accountant asks for it, or a big client or the government wants to receive invoices only this way. But what exactly is it? And do you need it? Here's the simple version.
What is an e-invoice (UBL)?
A normal PDF invoice is made to be read by people. An e-invoice is made to be read by software. UBL is the standard language that e-invoice is written in.
A UBL file holds all the details (supplier, amount, VAT, invoice number) in a fixed, structured way. That lets the recipient's accounting software load the invoice automatically — without retyping.
Why would you use it?
- Your accountant wants it. UBL loads neatly into accounting software, so less manual work and fewer mistakes.
- The government asks for it. If you work for government bodies, e-invoicing is often required.
- Big clients ask for it. More and more companies process invoices automatically.
For many small freelancers a neat PDF is enough for now. But it helps to know you can also deliver UBL the moment someone asks.
How to export UBL in BoekBrug
In BoekBrug you just make your invoice, and you can then export it as UBL (e-invoice). So you deliver the invoice in the format your accountant, a big client or the government needs — alongside the normal PDF.
Note: BoekBrug makes and exports the e-invoice; sending it to a government portal or loading it into your accountant's software is done by you or your accountant.
Start by making an invoice below — free and no account.