In France, there are new guidelines for the sending and receiving of e-invoices, and it is important to understand the different methods and life cycle status of these invoices. This article will provide an overview of the three main methods and help you determine which one is best suited for your company.
The first method is Partner Dematerialisation Platforms (PDP). These platforms are certified by the government and have the privilege of issuing and receiving e-invoices directly with the service provider of the counter-party, without going through the Public Invoicing Portal (PPF). However, it is important to note that both the service provider and the counter-party must be PDPs for this method to work.
The second method is Dematerialisation Operators (OD). These service providers have not been certified by the government but offer similar functions as PDPs. The main difference is that they cannot issue or receive e-invoices directly without using the PPF as an intermediary. This means that the flow of the e-invoice must go through the PPF.
The third method is the Public Invoicing Portal (PPF), which will be the new platform for B2B e-invoicing in France. The PPF will be directly connected to the government hub for B2G e-invoicing, Chorus Pro. Any data passing through the PPF platform will be reported to the Tax Administration of France (DGFIP). The PPF also administers the central directory for e-invoicing.
Now let’s focus on Partner Dematerialisation Platforms (PDPs). A PDP is a service provider that has been certified by the government to issue and receive e-invoices directly with other PDPs. This certification comes with certain responsibilities, such as ensuring the security and authenticity of the e-invoices. PDPs are also subject to penalties if they fail to comply with the guidelines set by the government.
From a business perspective, choosing a PDP can have several advantages. Firstly, it allows for direct communication and exchange of e-invoices with other PDPs, eliminating the need for intermediaries. This can save time and reduce the risk of errors or delays in the invoicing process. Additionally, PDPs are certified by the government, which can provide reassurance and trust to both businesses and their customers.
To choose a PDP, it is important to consider factors such as the services offered, the level of security and data protection, and the pricing structure. It is also advisable to research and compare different PDPs to find the one that best suits the specific needs of your company.
Several service providers have applied for PDP certification in France. These providers have undergone a certification process to ensure that they meet the government’s requirements for issuing and receiving e-invoices. By obtaining PDP status, these service providers can offer their clients a direct and secure method of e-invoicing.
From a service provider perspective, obtaining PDP status involves complying with legislative acts and regulations set by the government. This may include implementing certain security measures, such as encryption and authentication protocols, and ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of the e-invoices.
In conclusion, the new guidelines for e-invoicing in France offer different methods for sending and receiving e-invoices. Partner Dematerialisation Platforms (PDPs) provide a direct and secure way of exchanging e-invoices with other certified service providers. It is important for businesses to consider their options and choose the method that best suits their needs and complies with the government’s guidelines.
