Step-by-Step Guide: Sending Your First InvoiceNow via Peppol

Singapore’s digital transformation journey has introduced InvoiceNow, a nationwide e-invoicing initiative based on the international Peppol standard. This system enables businesses to send and receive invoices directly between their accounting systems through a secure and standardized network. Embracing InvoiceNow not only streamlines invoicing processes but also enhances Goods and Services Tax (GST) compliance.

This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for businesses to send their first invoice via InvoiceNow, ensuring a smooth transition into digital invoicing.

Step 1: Understand the InvoiceNow Framework

InvoiceNow operates on the Peppol network, facilitating the exchange of invoices in a structured digital format between suppliers and buyers. This method reduces manual processing, minimizes errors, and accelerates payment cycles.

Step 2: Choose an InvoiceNow-Ready Solution

To participate in InvoiceNow, businesses must use an InvoiceNow-Ready Solution. These are accounting or finance solutions integrated with InvoiceNow capabilities, allowing seamless transmission of invoice data to the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS).

For instance, Million software and AutoCount software.

Step 3: Register for a Peppol ID

A Peppol ID is essential for sending and receiving invoices on the InvoiceNow network. Typically, your solution provider will assist in registering your business for a Peppol ID. This ID is often based on your Unique Entity Number (UEN), ensuring accurate identification within the network.

Step 4: Activate the GST InvoiceNow Submission Feature

Once your solution is set up, activate the GST InvoiceNow Submission feature. This enables the automatic transmission of invoice data to IRAS, aligning with the GST InvoiceNow Requirement.

Step 5: Create and Send Your First Invoice

1. Log in to your InvoiceNow-Ready Solution.
2. Create a new invoice, entering all necessary details such as:

• Supplier and buyer information
• Invoice date and number
• Description of goods or services
• GST amount and total payable

3. Enter the recipient’s Peppol ID to ensure accurate delivery.
4. Review the invoice for accuracy.
5. Send the invoice via the InvoiceNow network.

Upon sending, the invoice is transmitted directly to the recipient’s accounting system, and a copy is automatically sent to IRAS for tax administration purposes.

Step 6: Confirm Receipt and Record-Keeping

After sending the invoice:

• Confirm that the recipient has received and acknowledged the invoice
• Ensure that the invoice data is correctly recorded in your accounting system for future reference and compliance.

Additional Tips

• Test the System: Before sending actual invoices, conduct test transmissions to ensure the system functions correctly.
• Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates from IRAS and IMDA regarding any changes to the InvoiceNow framework or GST requirements.
• Seek Support: If you encounter issues, reach out to your solution provider or IMDA-accredited Access Point Provider for assistance.

🕒 Important: Due Date for Transmitting Invoice Data to IRAS

Starting from the rollout of the GST InvoiceNow Requirement, IRAS requires businesses to transmit invoice data for both sales and purchases. Here’s what you need to know:

🔔 When to Submit Invoice Data:

Invoice data must be transmitted to IRAS by the earlier of:

• The date your GST return is filed, or
• The filing due date of the relevant GST return

📆 What Counts as the Date of Transaction?

Note: If you claim input tax based on posting date (rather than invoice date), use the posting date.

📊 Example 1 – Sales Transaction

Company A issues a tax invoice on 20 Mar 2026. The GST return for the period 1 Jan–31 Mar 2026 is filed on 20 Apr 2026.

• Filing due date: 30 Apr 2026
• Actual filing date: 20 Apr 2026
• Invoice data must be submitted by: 20 Apr 2026

📊 Example 2 – Purchase Transaction

Company B receives a supplier invoice dated 20 Mar 2026 and files its GST return late, on 15 May 2026 (due date was 30 Apr 2026).

• Invoice date: 20 Mar 2026
• Filing due date: 30 Apr 2026
• Invoice data must be submitted by: 30 Apr 2026 (the earlier of 15 May or 30 Apr)

🚫 Excluded Businesses

Not all businesses are required to adopt GST InvoiceNow. IRAS has excluded the following:

• Overseas entities, including:
  – Overseas Vendors (OVR) under the Pay-only and Full regimes
• Reverse Charge-only GST-registered businesses

You can refer to the official IRAS e-Tax Guide: Adopting GST InvoiceNow Requirement (PDF, 1024KB) for more information.

Conclusion

Transitioning to InvoiceNow enhances your business’s invoicing efficiency and ensures compliance with Singapore’s GST regulations. By following this step-by-step guide, you can confidently send your first invoice via InvoiceNow, positioning your business at the forefront of digital transformation.

Feel free to reach out to Rockbell at (65) 6469 7720 / (65) 8889 1140 or email us at sales@rockbell.com.sg, we are here to assist you.