Is an invoice mandatory for a sale between individuals?

Verified 22 August 2025 - Directorate of Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

An individual cannot draw up an invoice. The drawing up of an invoice is reserved for persons carrying out a professional activity, whether in an individual capacity (for example, individual entrepreneur, self-entrepreneur) or in the context of a legal person.

The individual may, however, produce a document to justify the sale.

Only written proof (attestation, contract of sale under private signature) is necessary if the sale exceeds €1,500.

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Sale less than 1 500 €

Written proof of sale is not required, but is still recommended.

In case of dispute, the sale can be proven by any means (e.g. testimony, email exchange).

Sale greater than or equal to 1 500 €

The provision of written evidence is mandatory. This evidence may be:

  • a certificate of sale given to the buyer by the seller (individual). This certificate must be made in 2 copies (1 for the buyer and 1 for the seller),
  • or a contract of sale under private signature.

It is recommended that the following information be included in the sales certificate:

  • Identity and contact details of the seller and the buyer
  • Date and place of sale and delivery of the property
  • Description of the property sold (nature, color, etc.)
  • Purchaser's selling price and payment method (cash, check, etc.)
  • List of documents submitted (certificate, invoice, notice, etc.)
  • Signature of the two parties.

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