QR-invoice: Definition
In Switzerland, the QR-bill follows the same principle as a payment slip. In fact, it looks very similar but features a QR-code with the Swiss flag in the middle.
It contains the receipt with the name, address, and IBAN of the beneficiary and the information of the person who is to make the payment, as well as the payment section, which includes the QR-code.
The Benefits of QR-Invoicing
This payment method stands out for its simplicity compared to the payment slip. Once you've scanned the QR-code, all the beneficiary's details are automatically transferred to your e-banking platform. All you have to do is confirm the payment.
QR-bills are particularly advantageous if you are a company since they enable you to manage, issue and track your payments quickly and easily with compatible software. Last but not least, QR-invoices are far more interesting from the point of view of ecological standpoint.
QR-Invoice Components
Be sure to check that the essentials points that must appear on a QR-invoice are there, whether you're the payer or the payee, to avoid both errors and potential fraud.
In general, the following elements should appear on a QR-invoice:
- QR-IBAN or IBAN
The beneficiary's bank details.
- Amount
The amount to be paid, in one or more supported currencies.
- Reference
If applicable, a structured reference for tracking payments (QR-IBAN required).
- Beneficiary information
Name and address of the beneficiary.
- Payer information (optional)
This information can be pre-filled or added by the issuer.
- Due date (optional)
The deadline for payment.
Pay by QR-Bill
The most common way to pay a QR-bill is by a phone and a banking app although other means are also possible.
By Phone
The easiest way to pay a QR-bill is still by phone. If you haven't already done so, install the mobile application of the bank of your choice. Then follow the steps below:
- Log in to your e-banking area
- Find the QR-code scanner in the application
- Scan the QR-code
- Check the information and validate the payment
This procedure can also be carried out from your bank's e-banking space on your computer.
Manually
It's perfectly possible to pay a QR-bill without scanning the QR-code. You can simply yourself copy the beneficiary information in your e-banking space, from your bank's mobile application or from a computer.
In Person
The only way to pay by QR-invoice in person, is to receive it in paper format. If this is the case, you can then go to a post office counter or to your bank to make the payment.
However, please check that your invoice has a receipt, which is detachable. Without it, you won't be able to pay the bill in person, since it's there to prove that you've made the payment.
How do I Create a QR-Invoice?
There are several ways to create a QR-invoice yourself.
Online QR-Invoice Generator
To generate a QR-bill, you can do so directly online, using a generator. You will need to enter the beneficiary's details in the generator and you will then be able to generate a QR-bill with an IBAN and a QR reference, or a bill with just the IBAN.
For companies, you will generally be able to add the reference SCOR (Creditor reference or Structured Creditor Reference SCOR). Derived from ISO 11649, this reference is used to precisely identify a payment.
It is particularly useful for companies, which usually generate a large number of payments. It usually takes the following form: RF18 1234 5678 9012 3456.
With Accounting Software
It is also possible to generate QR-invoices through an accounting software. It helps you manage all aspects of your business needs , especially if you have a company.
You can also receive a notification when your customer has paid via the QR-invoice and, depending on the software, you can also have a notification when your customer has paid via the QR-invoice as well as closer automatic payment.
Several software programs, such as Winbiz, not only generate QR-invoices but also manage salaries, VAT returns, budget, accounts receivable and accounts payable.
Fraud risks
Although highly secure, payment by QR-invoice can be used for fraudulent activity. That's why it's a good idea to check the information on your bill before you pay it.
Pay close attention to the QR code you are asked to scan. Make sure that another code has not been pasted over it, and that it resembles the official codes you may have received so far.
If you have any doubts about the payment you're being asked to make, contact the organization concerned and check their practices. In addition, a QR-code should generally not take you to another page. Make sure you only scan QR-codes with your banking app.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I create an invoice with a QR code?
A QR-invoice can be created online using a QR-invoice generator, or via accounting software such as Winbiz or Xero.
How do I pay a QR-bill?
The easiest way to pay a QR-bill is to scan the QR-code via your bank's e-banking application. The beneficiary's bank details will then be immediately transferred to the platform, and all you have to do is validate the payment.
How do I pay a bill with a QR code at the post office?
To do this, you'll need to have received a paper QR-bill with a detachable receipt. You will then need to go to the post office with your paper version. You'll then be given the receipt as proof that you've made the requested payment.
What do I scan the QR-code with?
Use your bank's e-banking application to scan the code.
