How to Successfully Transition to Electronic Invoicing

Starting January 1, 2026, all VAT-registered companies in Belgium will be required to issue and receive structured electronic invoices. This reform is part of the government’s strategy to simplify commercial transactions, increase transparency, and modernize administrative processes. For construction companies, this represents a major shift — but also a chance to optimize operations. This article explains what you need to know, the benefits you can expect, and how you can prepare with a specialized solution like Hit-Online.

What is a structured electronic invoice?

Unlike traditional PDFs or printed invoices, a structured electronic invoice uses a standardized format (e.g. UBL) readable by accounting software. It contains all the necessary tax and accounting data, in a machine-readable and regulation-compliant format defined by Belgian and EU authorities.

According to the Belgian Ministry of Finance’s official announcement, all businesses with a Belgian VAT number must issue structured e-invoices from 2026, as long as the recipient is also VAT-registered. Some exemptions apply (e.g. Article 44), but the vast majority of construction businesses are affected.

The Peppol network: A secure and standardized channel

To be legally valid, an e-invoice must be sent through an official channel. Belgium uses the Peppol network (Pan-European Public Procurement On-Line), which ensures secure and verified exchange of documents between companies and public entities.

Is your business ready?

Use the official tool at einvoice.belgium.be to assess your readiness. Depending on your current setup (Excel, ERP, accountant, etc.), the steps may vary. The infographic below in French (from FPS Policy & Support) outlines your options:

E-invoicing infographic

It helps you determine whether your software is Peppol-compatible or if you should switch to a certified provider or integrate manually.

Hit-Online: A compliant solution tailored for construction

As a specialized software provider for the construction industry, Hit-Online offers a fully integrated invoicing solution that meets all legal requirements. Our program is already Peppol-compatible, ensuring a smooth and compliant transition.

With Hit-Online, you can send structured invoices and attach supporting documents (progress reports, delivery slips, plans, photos, etc.) directly through the Peppol network — especially helpful in construction, where such attachments are critical.

What are the benefits for your business?

  • Faster invoice processing and payments
  • Fewer errors and disputes
  • Less paper = greener operations
  • Stronger security and audit trails
  • Better collaboration with clients and partners

Hit-Online enhances all these advantages by fully integrating them into your daily processes.

How to get started today

Don’t wait until the last minute. Start now with these steps:

  • Evaluate your current situation via the government assessment tool
  • Check whether your invoicing software is Peppol-compliant
  • If not, switch to a certified solution like Hit-Online
  • Train your team on the new tool
  • Start sending test invoices today — be fully ready for 2026

Conclusion

Structured e-invoicing will soon be mandatory in Belgium. Use this shift as an opportunity to digitize your workflow and gain operational benefits. Hit-Online supports your journey with a powerful, construction-ready solution fully compliant with Belgian regulations.

👉 Learn more: Hit-Online

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