The Growing Importance of Electronic Invoicing & VAT Controls
From Mexico’s CFDI to Peru's SUNAT requirements, e-invoices are standard. Underreporting, failing to issue proper digital invoice codes, or improper VAT credits are red flags that trigger audits.
- In Mexico, CFDI must adhere to XML schemas and complementary catalogs; mistakes lead to denial of VAT credits and other penalties.
- Peru’s SUNAT is mandating el uso del Registro de Ventas e Ingresos Electrónico (RVIE) and Registro de Compras Electrónico (RCE) via the Sistema Integrado de Registros Electrónicos (SIRE), though SUNAT is offering extended periods without sanction for non-compliance during transition. (cpe.sunat.gob.pe)
Audit Triggers & Common Mistakes
- Issuing paper invoices when only electronic versions are valid in your jurisdiction.
- Claiming VAT input credits without valid supplier CFDI or digital invoice codes.
- Failing to accurately code goods/services lines in your e-invoice catalog.
- Delays in adjusting or amending mismatched purchase/sales records in RVIE/RCE or homologous systems. Also failing to adopt updated invoice versions (e.g., Mexico’s updated “DEM” format for special production taxes). (wwwnp.sat.gob.mx)
Practical Steps to Reduce Audit Risk
- Review invoice formats quarterly to align with catalog changes, schema updates, or new electronic invoice mandates.
- Implement standard internal controls: Only accept invoices with correct digital seals, matching addresses, and verifying supplier tax registration.
- Participate early in any grace “amnesty” periods: For example, Peru’s SUNAT allows extensions for SIRE-related infractions through early 2027 without penalties. (cpe.sunat.gob.pe)
- Document your processes—mapping your invoice workflows, record retention, and reconciliation between RVIE/RCE and your accounting system.
Example: Peru’s Extension & Sanction Grace
SUNAT's recent Resolución de Superintendencia Adjunta N.º 000041-2026-SUNAT/700000 extends discretionary non-penalty treatment for certain infractions related to RVIE and RCE under SIRE for the periods August–December 2026 and January 2027 with subsanation deadlines through 28 February 2027. (cpe.sunat.gob.pe) Businesses using SIRE should act now to correct non-compliance without incurring fines.
Key Takeaways
- Maintain active compliance with e-invoicing systems: PCI, authentication, valid supplier data.
- Monitor policy updates: invoice version changes, grace periods, definitions of “large” vs “small” taxpayers.
- Be proactive: conduct internal audit mock routines to find missing invoices before external reviews.