A proforma invoice is a document that is often confused with a VAT invoice. However, it differs in its legal force and purpose. A proforma invoice is issued at the request of the buyer or for an order and contains the same information as a standard invoice. In this article we will take a closer look at what a proforma invoice is, what information it should contain and for what purpose it is used.
What is a proforma invoice?
A proforma invoice is a document that is issued by the seller at the request of the buyer or for the purpose of an order. It contains the same information as a standard invoice, such as the name and address of the seller and buyer, a description of the goods or services, price, quantity, value, etc. However, a proforma invoice does not have the force of law and is not a billing document, but only a confirmation of a price offer or an order.
Is a proforma invoice proof of purchase?
A proforma invoice is not proof of purchase. It is merely a document confirming a price offer or an order, which has no legal force and is not a billing document. The proof of purchase is a VAT invoice, which is issued after the transaction has taken place and contains detailed information about the transaction, such as the name and address of the seller and buyer, a description of the goods or services, the price, quantity, value, etc. In Poland, it is an essential document for tax settlements.
Can the TIN be included on the proforma invoice?
The TIN number cannot be included on the proforma invoice. A proforma invoice is only a confirmation of a price offer or order, not a billing document, and therefore does not contain tax information such as the VAT number. The VAT number can only be found on the VAT invoice, which is issued after the transaction has taken place and is a settlement document.
