Have you just started your journey as a freelancer or micro-entrepreneur in France? Congratulations! You've embarked on a path of freedom and independence. But it's in the first few months that many make simple yet costly mistakes in administrative matters, especially when creating invoices.
Unpaid invoices, penalties from the tax authorities, and damaged client relationships are just a few of the consequences of careless invoicing. My name is Zukova Inna, and as an expert in financial administration for micro-entrepreneurs, I'm here to help you understand. Here are the 5 most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Missing Mandatory Details
An invoice (facture) in France isn't just a piece of paper with an amount due. It's a legal document with strict requirements.
What must be on every invoice:
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Your full details (name, address, SIRET number)
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Your client's full details
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Invoice date
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Unique sequential invoice number
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Detailed description of service or product
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Cost excluding VAT (HT - Hors Taxe)
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Mention of VAT non-applicability
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Total amount due (Net à payer)
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Payment terms
How to avoid it: I've created a ready-to-use invoice template for you with all these fields already included — just download it and start using it.
Mistake 2: Confusion in Invoice Numbering
Your invoice numbers must be unique and sequential. Skipping numbers is a red flag for tax authorities.
How to avoid it: Maintain a simple Excel register. In my courses, I show how to create such a system in 15 minutes.
Mistake 3: Incorrect Payment Terms Calculation
You specified "payment within 30 days" but the client pays after 45? This is your fault.
How to avoid it: Clearly specify payment terms. In my seminar, I provide ready-made formulations for different situations.
Mistake 4: Fear of Following Up on Late Payment
Client didn't pay on time? Many fear "damaging the relationship." Your business is not a charity.
How to avoid it: I'll teach you how to create polite but effective payment reminders.
Mistake 5: Not Knowing Rules for International Clients
Different rules apply for clients outside the EU.
How to avoid it: Always confirm the client's location. In individual consultations, I help navigate international billing requirements.
Conclusion
Properly formatted invoices will protect you from financial losses. As a specialist with experience working with micro-entrepreneurs, I invite you to my seminar "The Perfect Invoice: Payment Guaranteed" where we'll address all these issues in detail.