fbpx

How to Send Your First InvoiceNow via Peppol in Singapore: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

How to Send Your First InvoiceNow via Peppol in Singapore: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

How to Send Your First InvoiceNow via Peppol in Singapore

As Singapore continues to digitise business processes, InvoiceNow has become one of the most efficient ways for businesses to exchange invoices electronically. Built on the international Peppol network, InvoiceNow enables companies to send invoices directly from one accounting system to another without relying on PDFs or manual data entry.

For businesses that are GST-registered or planning to adopt digital invoicing, understanding how InvoiceNow works is essential. This guide explains everything you need to know before sending your first InvoiceNow invoice.

What is InvoiceNow?

InvoiceNow is Singapore’s nationwide e-invoicing framework that uses the Peppol network to exchange invoices securely between businesses.

Instead of emailing invoices or manually entering invoice information, InvoiceNow transfers structured invoice data directly into the recipient’s accounting software.

The benefits include:

  • Faster invoice processing
  • Reduced human errors
  • Improved payment turnaround
  • Better GST record keeping
  • Increased business efficiency
  • Simplified compliance with Singapore’s digital invoicing initiatives

InvoiceNow supports businesses of every size, from startups and SMEs to large enterprises.

Step 1: Use an InvoiceNow-Ready Accounting Software

Before you can send invoices through the Peppol network, your business needs accounting software that supports InvoiceNow.

Many popular accounting systems like Xero in Singapore now include built-in InvoiceNow functionality, allowing businesses to:

  • Generate invoices
  • Send invoices via Peppol
  • Receive e-invoices
  • Maintain digital accounting records
  • Submit invoice data where required

Choosing the right software ensures a smooth transition into digital invoicing.

Step 2: Register Your Business for a Peppol ID

Every business on the InvoiceNow network requires a unique Peppol ID.

The Peppol ID acts like a digital business address, allowing suppliers and customers to locate one another securely on the network.

Most software providers or authorised access point providers will assist with the registration process using your company’s UEN.

Once registration is complete, your business is ready to exchange electronic invoices.

Step 3: Configure InvoiceNow in Your Accounting System

After obtaining your Peppol ID, activate the InvoiceNow feature within your accounting software.

Depending on your software, setup usually involves:

  • Verifying your business details
  • Activating Peppol services
  • Configuring GST settings
  • Connecting to an accredited access point

A properly configured system helps ensure invoices are transmitted successfully and remain compliant with Singapore requirements.

Step 4: Prepare Your First Invoice

Create your invoice as you normally would.

Be sure to include:

  • Supplier information
  • Customer information
  • Invoice number
  • Invoice date
  • Description of products or services
  • Quantity and pricing
  • GST amount
  • Total payable
  • Customer’s Peppol ID

Always verify that all information is accurate before sending.

Step 5: Send the Invoice Through InvoiceNow

Once the invoice is ready:

  1. Review all invoice details.
  2. Select InvoiceNow or Peppol as the delivery method.
  3. Enter the recipient’s Peppol ID.
  4. Submit the invoice.

Instead of sending a PDF attachment, the invoice is delivered electronically through the secure Peppol network directly into your customer’s accounting software.

This eliminates duplicate data entry and speeds up invoice processing.

Step 6: Confirm Successful Delivery

After transmission, your accounting system typically displays the delivery status.

Common statuses include:

  • Successfully delivered
  • Pending
  • Rejected
  • Failed

If an invoice cannot be delivered, check:

  • The recipient’s Peppol ID
  • Internet connection
  • Invoice validation errors
  • Missing mandatory fields

Resolving issues promptly prevents payment delays.

Why Businesses Are Moving to InvoiceNow

InvoiceNow provides significant operational advantages.

Faster Payments

Invoices reach customers instantly, reducing processing delays.

Greater Accuracy

Structured electronic invoices minimise manual input mistakes.

Improved Productivity

Finance teams spend less time preparing, emailing, and following up on invoices.

Better Compliance

InvoiceNow supports Singapore’s digital tax ecosystem and helps businesses maintain organised financial records.

Reduced Administrative Costs

Electronic invoicing decreases paper usage, printing costs, and repetitive manual work.

Best Practices Before Sending Your First Invoice

To maximise success:

  • Verify customer Peppol IDs before sending.
  • Keep your accounting software updated.
  • Review invoice information carefully.
  • Train staff on InvoiceNow procedures.
  • Perform test transactions where possible.
  • Maintain digital invoice records for auditing purposes.

Following these practices reduces errors and improves efficiency.

Common Questions About InvoiceNow

Is InvoiceNow mandatory?

InvoiceNow requirements are being introduced progressively for certain GST-registered businesses in Singapore. Businesses should stay informed of the latest IRAS requirements and timelines.

Can SMEs use InvoiceNow?

Yes. InvoiceNow is suitable for businesses of all sizes, including startups, SMEs, and large enterprises.

Do I still need PDF invoices?

Some businesses may still generate PDF copies for internal records or customers, but the structured electronic invoice is transmitted through the Peppol network.

How WLP Can Help

Implementing InvoiceNow is more than simply installing software. Businesses must ensure their accounting system is correctly configured, GST processes remain compliant, and staff understand how to use the new workflow.

WLP helps Singapore businesses simplify the transition by providing:

  • InvoiceNow implementation support
  • Peppol registration guidance
  • Accounting software setup
  • GST compliance assistance
  • Bookkeeping and accounting services
  • Business advisory for SMEs
  • Ongoing accounting system support

Whether you are adopting InvoiceNow for the first time or upgrading your accounting processes, WLP can help you implement a solution that improves efficiency while keeping your business compliant.

Final Thoughts

InvoiceNow is transforming how Singapore businesses exchange invoices. By replacing manual invoicing with secure electronic transactions over the Peppol network, companies can reduce administrative work, improve payment speed, and strengthen GST compliance.

Starting early allows businesses to familiarise themselves with the system before digital invoicing becomes part of everyday operations. With the right accounting software and professional support from WLP, adopting InvoiceNow can be a straightforward step toward a more efficient and future-ready business.