How do you invoice and charge in a public contract?

UF, the issue of billing and charging in public contracts ... is not precisely a walk through the park, huh? Each country has its own jungle of rules, and on top of local governments sometimes their own versions are invented. So, you have to be with a thousand eyes.

First, the basics: when a company gets into this public contracts, it has to be very clear how to raise the bill. It is not just putting "for services provided" and ready. They ask you to the last detail: what did you do, when you delivered it, how much does everything cost, the contract number (always forget!), And sometimes even data that you didn't even know that they existed. And of course, if the contract says that the invoice has to have information, then it has to have it. There is no other.

Now, the modern theme: electronic billing. Forget about the papers in most cases. You have to learn to use official platforms, which never work at first. And you have to follow the standard format, that if a comma or a mandatory field is missing, pum! Rejected invoice. On some sides, you have to go through the blessing of the Tax Agency before sending your bill to the client. A show.

Charge? Well, this is when patience is your best friend. They will not pay you as soon as you send the invoice. First, the public body has to review everything and approve. That can take days ... or weeks, depending on what the contract says or how they get up that month in the payment office. Some contracts make it clear: "I pay you in 30 days." Others, not a track, and there it is time to cross your fingers.

In Europe, for example, there is a directive (2011/7/EU, for those who like nerd data) that force public bodies to pay in 30 days, unless otherwise agreed. Now, are they delayed? Theoretically, you can ask for interests and even claim collection expenses. But be careful, before throwing you to war, you better talk to a lawyer. It is not the same to fight you with the cousin as with the Treasury.

Finally, do not underestimate the importance of carrying an orderly file of all invoices and payments. It seems obvious, but when the auditors come or a mess arises, that record can save you the skin. In addition, you have control over your cash flow and you are not chasing payments as a soul in sorrow.

In summary: Billing and charging in the public sector is an art of patience, detail and good organization. If you drive it well, it can be a gold mine. If not ... well, prepare for headaches.