Spain’s Tax Agency (AEAT) is launching Verifactu, a new invoicing system that changes how freelancers and small companies issue invoices.
From 2026, every invoice in Spain must follow the Verifactu AEAT rules to be valid.
Below you’ll find what Verifactu means, the main dates, how the free AEAT app will work, and how to prepare your business in time.
1. What Verifactu AEAT is
Verifactu is AEAT’s verified invoicing system.
It gives every invoice a unique digital code and QR that prove it was created correctly and hasn’t been changed.
For freelancers and small businesses, this means you’ll keep issuing invoices as usual, but only through tools that follow AEAT’s format.
Why it matters:
- It will be mandatory from 2026.
- It ensures invoices are valid and can’t be altered.
- It helps prevent fraud and common invoicing mistakes.
If you still use Word or Excel, you’ll need to switch to invoicing software that supports Verifactu.
2. Key dates to remember
- January 1, 2026: Mandatory for companies (SLs).
- July 1, 2026: Mandatory for freelancers (autónomos). Read more about autonomo here.
From these dates, every invoice must include Verifactu’s QR and verification code.
Until then, AEAT and software providers are preparing tools to make the switch easy.
3. The free AEAT app and other options
AEAT will launch a free Verifactu app in 2025 to help small businesses and freelancers comply.
You’ll be able to log in through AEAT’s website, fill in your invoice details, and the system will automatically send them to AEAT. Each invoice will get its QR code and verification number.
For those who issue just a few invoices a month, this free app will likely be enough.
Those who invoice more often or need additional automation can use other Verifactu-compliant tools, such as renn, which already supports the same AEAT format but integrates features like automatic expense tracking and tax preparation. Both options follow the same AEAT rules — the main difference is in how much manual work each one requires.
4. How to get ready before 2026
- Check your software: Make sure your invoicing tool will support Verifactu (QR and trace code).
- Test early: Try AEAT’s free app or another Verifactu-ready program to learn the process.
- Keep invoices safe: You must store each one exactly as sent — no edits allowed.
- Update your workflow: Every invoice must include the QR and a note confirming it was created through a Verifactu system.
- Start early: Waiting until 2026 could cause rejections or technical issues.
Preparing now will make the transition smooth and stress-free.
5. FAQ – Verifactu AEAT for freelancers and small businesses
When does it start?
January 2026 for companies, July 2026 for freelancers.
Is the AEAT app free?
Yes. It will be free and available online.
Can I keep using Excel or Word?
No. Only invoices created with Verifactu-approved systems will be valid.
What happens if I don’t comply?
Invoices may be rejected, and AEAT can apply fines.
How can I prepare?
Start testing AEAT’s app or another compliant tool before 2026.
6. Bottom line
Verifactu AEAT marks a big change in Spain’s invoicing rules.
By 2026, every invoice must include AEAT’s QR and verification code.
You can use AEAT’s free app or another approved platform that follows the same standard.
The key is to start early, test your system, and make sure your invoices meet AEAT’s requirements well before the deadline.
