The electronic invoice is a method used to generate, send, and store invoices electronically, reducing paper usage and simplifying accounting and taxation processes.
The primary goal of electronic invoicing is to have more accurate control over the earnings of self-employed professionals with tax obligations, such as doctors, veterinarians, lawyers, notaries, accountants, engineers, architects, among others, who work independently, as well as companies in the country.
Here are some key aspects of electronic invoicing in Costa Rica:
- Obligation for Taxpayers: Electronic invoicing has become mandatory for most taxpayers in Costa Rica, including both companies and independent professionals. Taxpayers must register in the electronic invoicing system and issue all their invoices through this method.
- Electronic Invoicing Platform: In Costa Rica, the Ministry of Finance offers an online platform called ‘ATV’ (Virtual Tax Administration) for generating and sending electronic invoices. Taxpayers must register on ATV and use this platform to comply with electronic invoicing requirements or can opt to use software that offers these services.
- Electronic Signature: Electronic invoices must be digitally signed to ensure their authenticity and integrity. This is done using a digital certificate issued by an authorized entity.
- Electronic Documents: Apart from invoices, other types of documents such as debit notes, credit notes, and withholding receipts must also be issued electronically.
- Invoice Validation: There’s a validation process for electronic invoices to ensure they meet legal requirements.
- Invoices that fail this validation may be rejected. Document Storage: Electronic invoices must be stored in accordance with current tax and accounting regulations.
