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E-invoice, e-archive, e-ledger: what’s the difference?

These three “e” terms are often confused. Yet each refers to a different document and a different obligation. Here is a plain distinction.

E-transformation is moving fiscal documents from paper to digital. There are three core concepts, commonly confused. Briefly: e-invoice and e-archive are invoice types; e-ledger is the digital form of legal books.

What is an e-invoice?

An e-invoice is an invoice issued electronically between two taxpayers registered in the e-invoice system. If the buyer is also an e-invoice user, the invoice is delivered digitally without paper. It is mandatory for businesses above a certain turnover threshold.

What is an e-archive?

An e-archive invoice is issued when the buyer is not an e-invoice user (e.g. a final consumer). Customers not registered in the e-invoice system are invoiced via e-archive. Both are electronic; the difference is whether the buyer is registered.

What is an e-ledger?

An e-ledger is keeping and storing legal books such as the journal and general ledger electronically. It is a book concept, not an invoice; it concerns the recording infrastructure of accounting.

How does this work in ERPKolay?

In the ERPKolay pre-accounting module, sales and purchase invoices are created line by line with VAT calculated automatically. E-invoice and e-archive integration is assessed during setup based on your situation; e-ledger processes are run together with your accountant.

In short: e-invoice and e-archive determine “how you issue invoices,” e-ledger determines “how you keep your books.” Which is mandatory depends on your turnover and activity; consult your accountant for current thresholds.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between e-invoice and e-archive?

An e-invoice is issued between taxpayers registered in the e-invoice system. An e-archive is an electronic invoice issued to buyers not registered in the system (e.g. final consumers).

What is an e-ledger?

Keeping and storing legal books such as the journal and general ledger electronically. It is a book concept, not an invoice.

Who is required to use e-invoice?

Businesses above a certain turnover threshold. Thresholds are updated periodically; consult your accountant for your situation.