How to Create a Receipt Correctly? Professional Guide
Receipts are an important part of payment processes in some areas. In the past, sellers, craftsmen, and others had to regularly issue these documents. Nowadays, receipts are less common due to modern cash register systems and cashless transactions. However, a receipt can also be created online if needed.
What is a Receipt?
A receipt is a written document that proves a business transaction between two parties. Therefore, it is important to keep these documents. The retention period for receipts is 10 years.
Legal Aspects of Receipts
Especially those who make cash payments can request a receipt. This is also stated in German Civil Code § 368 BGB.
- Receipts prove that the service or goods reached the recipient.
- They document that the debtor actually paid the claim. The two parties are thus 'even'.
- Receipts are also important for tax authorities: They serve companies as proof of business income or expenses. They are a prerequisite for input tax deduction.
What Mandatory Information Must a Receipt Contain?
The legislator has formulated clear formal and content-related points. What must be on a receipt?
- Name of the payer
- Name of the payee
- Type and quantity of products or services
- Amount of the gross price in numbers and words
- Currently applicable VAT rate
- Net amount if applicable
- Sequential receipt number if applicable
- Note about receipt of service/goods
- Place, date, signature of payee and company stamp if applicable
Create Receipt Online - How It Works
With our free tool, you can easily and quickly create your receipts: Fill in all fields according to the labels. The system automatically calculates the net amount and tax based on the total amount. You can then print your created receipt.
Advantages of Digital Receipts
Digital receipts have not only practical but also visual advantages. They can be filled out quickly, used multiple times, and easily archived. Unlike handwritten receipt books, they can be individually designed. This not only looks more professional but also strengthens brand recognition. At the same time, you keep track: Digital receipt templates can be saved, numbered, and accessed at any time – completely paperless.
Receipts for Private Sales
Can you issue a receipt as a private individual? The basic answer: Yes, you may issue a receipt as a private person, for example when selling a used item. Although there is no legal obligation for private sales, once the other party requests a receipt, it must be issued. Important: Private individuals may not show VAT.