From January 1, 2026, electronic invoicing via Peppol becomes mandatory for all Belgian companies. This deadline is approaching rapidly and it is crucial to prepare now. In this comprehensive guide, we explain everything you need to know about this obligation and how Peppol Box can help you comply easily.

What is the Peppol 2026 obligation in Belgium?

The Peppol 2026 obligation is a major reform of invoicing in Belgium. From January 1, 2026, all invoices between companies (B2B) must pass through the Peppol network. This measure aims to:

• Modernize the Belgian economy by fully digitalizing commercial exchanges
• Reduce VAT fraud through automatic transaction control
• Simplify administrative management for companies
• Align with European standards for electronic invoicing

Important: Paper invoices and PDFs sent by email will no longer be legally accepted after December 31, 2025.

Who is affected by the Peppol obligation?

The Peppol obligation concerns all VAT-registered companies in Belgium, without exception:

Companies required to use Peppol:

• Self-employed and liberal professions (doctors, lawyers, consultants...)
• Merchants and craftsmen (restaurants, shops, hairdressers...)
• SMEs and VSEs from all sectors
• Large companies
• VAT-registered non-profits

Who is NOT affected:

• Invoices to individuals (B2C)
• Non-VAT registered companies
• International exchanges (for now)

Key dates for the Peppol obligation in Belgium

Implementation schedule:

July 2025: Publication of final regulatory texts
September 2025: Start of recommended transition period
January 1, 2026: EFFECTIVE OBLIGATION
March 2026: First sanctions for non-compliance

What are the penalties?

Non-compliance with the Peppol obligation exposes companies to several risks:

Financial penalties:

• Administrative fines up to €5,000 per violation
• VAT surcharge in case of tax audit
• Deductibility refusal of non-compliant invoices

Commercial consequences:

• Inability to invoice your professional clients
• Loss of markets to compliant competitors
• Damage to your company's image

How does Peppol work in practice?

Peppol works as a digital postal network for invoices:

1. Unique identifier: Each company receives a Peppol identifier (like an email address)
2. Automatic sending: Invoices are sent directly from one system to another
3. Standardized format: All invoices use the UBL 2.1 format
4. Instant reception: Invoices arrive in real time
5. Complete traceability: Each transaction is recorded and verifiable

How to prepare for the Peppol 2026 obligation?

Preparing for the Peppol obligation requires several important steps:

Step 1: Choose a certified Peppol access point

You must use a certified access point like Peppol Box to connect to the network. Important selection criteria:

• Official Peppol certification
• Interface in English
• Responsive customer support
• Transparent pricing
• Accounting integration

Step 2: Activate your Peppol identifier

Activation is quick with Peppol Box:

1. Online registration with your VAT number
2. Automatic validation via BCE
3. Receive your unique identifier
4. Communicate to your suppliers

Step 3: Train your teams

Plan training for your employees on:

• Using the Peppol Box interface
• Managing electronic invoices
• New validation procedures
• Export to accounting

Tip: Don't wait until 2026! Start now with the Peppol Box discovery offer at €5 for 3 months.

Why choose Peppol Box for the 2026 obligation?

Peppol Box is the ideal solution for Belgian merchants and self-employed who want to comply without complications:

Exclusive Peppol Box advantages:

Maximum simplicity

Intuitive interface like an email box. No technical skills required.

2-minute activation

Quick registration, automatic validation, Peppol identifier active immediately.

100% in English

Interface, support and documentation entirely in English for Belgium.

Transparent pricing

Clear rates from €7/month, no hidden fees or surprises.

Frequently asked questions about the Peppol 2026 obligation

Can I continue sending PDFs after 2026?

No, PDF invoices by email will no longer be legally accepted for B2B exchanges. Only invoices via Peppol will be valid.

Can my accountant manage Peppol for me?

No, your company must have its own Peppol access. Your accountant can receive your exported invoices, but cannot receive them on your behalf.

How much does Peppol cost?

With Peppol Box, rates start at €7/month for receiving invoices. The discovery offer at €5 for 3 months allows you to test without commitment.

Conclusion: Act now!

The Peppol 2026 obligation is coming quickly and companies that are not ready risk serious consequences. Don't wait until the last minute to comply.

With Peppol Box, you benefit from a solution:

• Simple and intuitive adapted to merchants
• 100% compliant with Belgian regulations
• Affordable with transparent pricing
• Supported by a responsive team in Belgium

Peppol mandatory 2026 in Belgium: Complete guide for merchants