Concept Definition
What is an invoice date?
An invoice date is the date on which a VAT invoice is issued. It is a mandatory field that determines the tax point for VAT accounting purposes in many jurisdictions. The invoice date must be the date of issue or an earlier date when the supply occurred, depending on local rules.
What is the difference between invoice date and supply date?
The invoice date is when the invoice is issued. The supply date (tax point) is when the goods or services were delivered. In many EU jurisdictions, the tax point is the earlier of the invoice date or the date of supply. Both dates may be required on a VAT invoice.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can an invoice be backdated?
- Backdating a VAT invoice to a prior tax period can manipulate VAT reporting and is generally not permitted. Where the supply date precedes the invoice date, the supply date may be noted separately. Intentional backdating for VAT advantage is a compliance violation.
- What is the latest an invoice can be issued?
- EU rules require invoices to be issued by the 15th day of the month following the month of supply. Some member states have stricter rules. For continuous services, invoices may be issued at the end of each supply period.