The UK’s professional tax and accounting bodies have backed the adoption of e-invoicing in their responses to a government consultation.

The Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) says that HMRC will need to prioritise the effective implementation of e-invoicing if it is to drive its adoption among UK businesses.

The CIOT has recommended that any e-invoicing software should be built to flexible, agreed minimum standards that accommodate variations in invoicing requirements in tax legislation, while ensuring clear expectations around operability, security, and data accessibility for taxpayers.

Ellen Milner, CIOT Director of Public Policy, said:

‘If the UK government desires greater adoption of e-invoicing without mandating its use, HMRC will need to consider a package of options to encourage voluntary adoption.

‘This may include an educational and training campaign, financial incentives, providing a better business experience, effective implementation and systems that instil confidence to move along the digital journey.’

ICAEW’s Tax Faculty also responded to the consultation on increasing the adoption of e-invoicing by UK businesses and the public sector.

It said:

‘Many countries, including EU member states, have already introduced e-invoicing mandates or national frameworks. ICAEW believes that the UK’s current lack of a co-ordinated e-invoicing policy places its businesses at a growing disadvantage and could deter capital investment. The government’s consultation is a timely opportunity to close the gap and lay the foundations for future digital transformation.

‘However, successful implementation of e-invoicing will require careful planning, targeted support and alignment with existing international standards.’