What is an invoice? An invoice is a request for payment issued by a seller to the buyer of goods or services after the sale, detailing the goods supplied or work performed, and the amount to be paid in return. 

Definition of an invoice 

The invoice is an accounting document that proves a purchase or sale. It lists the goods and services provided by your company, and at the same time indicates their price, as well as the total amount to be paid by the buyer.

The invoice is therefore essential since it is the document which identifies the creditor (you) and the debtor (your customer) and serves as a request for payment. But to be valid, it must meet certain conditions. 

According to current legislation, the invoice is obligatory. Please note that the buyer has the right to claim one if it has not been sent to him. 

Brief history of invoices

Before contemporary bills, counting sticks were used, followed by inscriptions on bones, such as the Ishango stick dating back approximately 20,000 to 25,000 years in the Congo. 

The first invoice-like documents come from the Middle East: the Sumerians developed cuneiform around 3200 BC. recording on clay tablets various transactions, including the receipt of livestock. 

The Industrial Revolution in the 18th century brought notable improvements in invoicing, and then accounting machines in the 19th century revolutionized this area. 

In the 20th century, the appearance of logos on invoices marked a further step, before EDI in the 1960s facilitated the exchange of financial documents. Since the 1990s, invoices have migrated to web platforms.

Invoice functions

Everything has its reason for being and the invoice is no exception: you will be surprised to learn the importance of this document. Among the most significant functions of a typical invoice are that it allows you to:

Maintain transaction history: Probably the most important function of all, the invoice leaves a distinct written record of business activity. It indicates who is responsible for the provision of services or delivery of goods, payment details and the conditions of execution of the contract.

Helping accountants: What is an invoice in accounting? Following the previous point, invoices are essential for the proper maintenance of general accounting. These documents are used to determine the total amount of accounts payable and creditors. In addition, invoices are used to record taxable revenue, which helps a business or self-employed person declare their income. Good invoicing can be an additional asset in the event of an audit.

Legal representation function: Invoices can serve as a reliable mediation for possible disputes between a buyer and a seller. In this way, the risks of fraudulent activities on either side are significantly reduced.

A powerful tool for analysis: Invoices help collect information about customer purchasing habits, the most commonly ordered types of goods or services, peak periods, and more. This data will be very useful in planning the future development of the company.

An invoice can fulfill a wide range of business tasks. It provides clear order information to both parties and leaves virtually no room for fraud.

What is the role of invoice?

The invoice is an essential document which will allow: 

• monitoring the various commercial transactions, essential for your accounting, your tax return, but also to know your financial situation precisely; 
• to prove what you actually earned; 
• to justify the agreement concluded with the client. To do this, you will need to present it clearly to avoid misunderstandings;
• to request payment from your buyer. You will thus receive the money due for your work;  
• to take action in the event of unpaid debts ; 
• to promote your activity and develop the image of your company through a logo or links to social media. 

What are the different types of invoices?

There are several types of invoices : 

• The standard invoice: this is the most common document. It can be used for several sectors of activity and consists of a very basic format containing all the necessary information. 
• Commercial invoice: it is used in international trade for shipping goods from one country to another. 
• The proforma invoice: it gives the buyer an estimate of the price of the products or services. 
• The closing invoice: which closes a contract between a service provider and a client.  
• The credit note: it allows you to cancel or modify an invoice already established. 
• The deposit invoice: it allows you to justify the amount paid upstream of the delivery or production of a good or service.  

What items should be included on the invoice? 

For the invoice to be valid, it must include a certain number of mandatory information :

• The mention “ invoice ”,
• Invoice number,
• Date of issue of the invoice,
• The name or company name of your establishment,
• The head office address, as well as the billing address (if different),
• The VAT number, the SIREN number and the legal form of your company,
• Customer’s name and contact details (if the billing address and delivery address are different, you must enter both),
• Customer’s VAT identification number if it is a professional,
• The detailed account of each service and/or product, in quantity and unit price excluding tax,
• The price of labor,
• Total amount to be paid excluding tax,
• The applicable VAT rates and amounts, as well as the total amount all taxes included,
• Payment conditions (payment deadlines, amount of any deposit),
• Penalties for late payment may apply.

How to create an invoice online?

Save time and make it easier to create your invoices with online invoicing software.

Simply let the software guide you when creating your first invoice.

If you use software that complies with the anti-fraud law, you have the assurance of creating a clear invoice that complies with the requirements of regulations.

Invoice with or without VAT and choose the legal notice that corresponds to your status (self-liquidation, self-employed, exemption, reduced VAT, etc.).

When you provide your legal, product and customer information, it is recorded in your database.

Thus, all subsequent invoices will automatically include your contact details and legal notices and you will be able to import your products and customers in just a few clicks.

Tips for writing an invoice 

First of all, be as clear and complete as possible in the description of your services and/or products. The customer wants to know concretely what they are buying! A beautiful presentation also makes all the difference and directly reflects your professionalism.

On the other hand, know that using invoicing software will allow you to save time and avoid oversights. This very practical tool not only guarantees you compliant invoices, but also considerably facilitates administrative management. In addition, your documents can be viewed from anywhere, and tracking and reminders are greatly simplified.

In summary

The invoice is a commercial, legal and accounting document established by a professional during the sale of goods or the provision of services.

This document, published in two copies, proves that the sale took place.

To be admissible, an invoice must contain a certain number of mandatory information. You can add other information that you deem relevant, as well as your conditions of sale. 

To save time editing your invoicing documents and avoid errors, we advise you to use invoicing software.

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In a world brimming with stress and uncertainty, discovering moments of joy and laughter can serve as a lifeline. One of the simplest methods to uplift someone’s spirits is by indulging in the timeless tradition of sharing corny jokes. But what exactly defines corny jokes, and what makes them so endearing? Let’s explore the world of corny humor and uncover the charm behind these cheesy quips

Understanding Corny Jokes

Corny jokes often stand as the unsung heroes of humor – they’re the jokes that prompt groans and eye rolls, yet somehow manage to evoke a smile. These jests typically rely on puns, wordplay, and straightforward humor to elicit a chuckle from their audience. For instance:

Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field!

Why Corny Jokes Captivate Audiences

There’s an inexplicable satisfaction in a well-timed corny joke. Whether it’s the simplicity of the humor or the communal aspect of shared groans and laughter, corny jokes possess a unique ability to uplift spirits and brighten even the gloomiest of days. Who can resist the charm of a classic dad joke like:

What do you call cheese that isn’t yours? Nacho cheese!

Corny Jokes in Popular Culture

Corny jokes extend beyond the confines of dad’s joke repertoire – they’ve left an indelible mark on pop culture. From sitcoms to stand-up comedy, corny humor has been a cornerstone of entertainment for decades. Comedic icons like Bob Hope and Joan Rivers were renowned for their corny one-liners, while television shows such as “The Office” and “Friends” have delivered numerous memorable corny moments. As Chandler Bing once quipped:

Why don’t skeletons fight each other? They don’t have the guts!

The Psychological Appeal of Corny Jokes

But what is it about corny jokes that makes them universally appealing? Psychologists suggest that corny humor taps into our inherent desire for simplicity and familiarity. The predictability of a corny joke allows our minds to unwind and relish the moment without exerting too much effort.Additionally, there’s a strangely gratifying appeal to groaning at a terrible pun, like:

Why did the bicycle fall over? Because it was two-tired!

Crafting the Perfect Corny Joke

Crafting an impeccable corny joke requires a delicate balance of wit, wordplay, and whimsy. If you’re eager to dabble in corny humor, here are some tips to kickstart your journey:

Keep it Simple:

Corny jokes thrive on simplicity, so avoid overcomplicating matters.

Embrace the Pun:

Puns serve as the cornerstone of corny humor, so don’t shy away from unleashing your punny side!

Know Your Audience:

Tailor your jokes to resonate with the preferences of your audience for maximum impact.

Corny Jokes for Every Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or seeking to enliven a mundane day at the office, there exists a corny joke tailored for every occasion. From groan-inducing puns to cheesy one-liners, corny humor knows no bounds. Here are a few jests to inject some laughter into your day:

Why don’t scientists trust atoms? Because they make up everything!

What do you get when you cross a snowman and a vampire? Frostbite!

Why did the golfer bring two pairs of pants? In case he got a hole in one!

The Benefits of Sharing Corny Jokes

Beyond their entertainment value, these jokes offer a wealth of benefits for both the storyteller and the audience. Research indicates that laughter releases endorphins, diminishes stress, and fortifies social connections. So, the next time you’re feeling blue, why not share a corny joke with a friend and spread some cheer?

The Future of Corny Jokes

Looking ahead, it’s evident that such jokes will persist as an integral part of our lives. From social media memes to virtual comedy showcases, corny humor is adapting to the digital era and discovering novel avenues to elicit smiles. Whether you’re a seasoned jokester or a novice enthusiast, embrace the cheesiness and allow laughter to ensue!

Conclusion:

In short, even though corny jokes might seem simple, cheesy, and sometimes cringe-worthy, they have a special power to make us happy and laugh. So, next time you hear a corny joke, don’t just brush it off – enjoy the silliness and have a good chuckle. Remember, laughter is like medicine, and such jokes are just what you need.

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Portable solar panels offer new freedom. They allow you to have a  power supply everywhere. Space-saving and very efficient, they increase your autonomy on vacation and during all your travels.

What are portable solar panels?

Portable solar panels are miniature photovoltaic panels that convert the sun’s energy into electricity. They can power a charger or a portable battery. Lightweight and designed to be used everywhere, they allow you to  charge all electronic devices  : smartphone, camera, tablet, GPS, laptop, camera. With a panel measuring 32 x 17 cm and only 3 mm thick, you will be able to supply electricity to all your small devices such as smartphones or sports cameras. A 6W panel can produce 1500 to 3300 mAh per day.

Portable solar panels are suitable for all outdoor leisure activities: skiing, hiking or the beach. If you travel by motorhome, by boat or if you go trekking, you will considerably increase your energy autonomy.

The panel provides electricity directly or  stores it in a miniature battery . This is external for high-power panels or integrated inside a module for  extra-flat flexible panels . It is then possible to use the stored energy on cloudy days or even at night.

Portable solar panels offer efficiencies of 10% to 23%. Charging times are almost identical to those of the original chargers. If the panel is used live, one hour of charging provides 10 minutes of communication with a mobile phone.

Large models can be folded to save space. An unfolded panel of 47 x 21 cm takes up only 21 x 13.5 cm when folded. Reinforced eyelets make attachment easier. The weight of solar panels varies from 150 g to 2.5 kg. Smaller models have a USB connection.

More powerful panels offer a 12V or 18V output. High-end models are particularly efficient because they have most often been designed for military use. They are therefore suitable for intensive use, even in extreme conditions.

Two main types of portable solar panels

There are two types of portable solar panels:

single-layer panels: 

 There are two subtypes; monocrystalline silicon models and so-called amorphous models. Monocrystalline panels are the least expensive. Amorphous silicon panels are lighter and stronger but cost 20 to 30% more. The efficiency of amorphous silicon panels is lower (around 10%) but they can be used over a wider time range.

thin-layer flexible panels:

  These so-called second or third generation panels are made up of several layers. They have excellent performance and remain effective even when the light is reduced. Several materials can be used for their design: 

• amorphous silicon;
• and CIGS ;
• with CdTe;
• organic polymers. 

Flexible solar panels are thin and light. They can fit anywhere. The multifunction panels  allow you to recharge external batteries but also a laptop.

Main advantages and disadvantages

Solar chargers are   very useful for all outdoor trips. Batteries have a limited useful life, so it can be very useful to have a backup electrical source when you spend several hours or several days without access to a fixed electrical installation.

The main advantages of portable solar panels are: 

• their practicality  : they are light, compact;
• their effectiveness  : they are resistant and waterproof
• and their hardiness  : they can withstand temperatures from -40° to +60°.

Besides their many advantages, portable solar panels do have some disadvantages:

Sometimes limited compatibility: you must ensure before purchasing that the portable panel is compatible with the devices to be recharged.

As mobile devices need a constant power supply to properly recharge their battery, it is advisable to use a buffer battery when the weather is cloudy,

Some high-power batteries require the use of a voltage regulator or solar booster to regulate the charge and protect the system.

Mobile solar panels are more expensive per 100 watt peak than regular solar panels. 

For these reasons, it is recommended that you consider mobile solar panels if you want to use them in a place where there is no electricity grid. In that case, it is an excellent sustainable alternative to provide yourself with electricity. Do you want to use solar power at home? Then traditional solar panels are more efficient. 

FAQs:

How does a portable solar battery work?

Solar panels generate direct electric current (DC), which is subsequently directed to the solar battery. The battery consists of reversible electrochemical accumulators, making it rechargeable. Subsequently, the energy extracted from the battery passes through the inverter.

What are the three types of solar panels?

There are three distinct types of solar panels, each with its own unique characteristics and energy production methods. These include thermal panels, photovoltaic panels, and hybrid models.

Which portable solar panel to choose?

Here are the top 4 solar kits of 2024:

Beem On 460 W solar station: priced at 629 euros.

EcoFlow PowerStream 800 W solar station: available for 1,011 euros.

Beem Energy 420 W solar station: starting from 699 euros.

Sunology Play 405 W solar station: starting from 749 euros.

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