Everything you need to know about the credit note

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In France, it is forbidden to cancel an invoice once it has been issued. To correct an error or adjust an amount, it is therefore necessary to use a credit note , also known as a credit note. This accounting document allows you to partially or completely cancel an existing invoice and is issued by the supplier to recognize an amount owed to the customer. But when should you issue a credit note and how to establish it to ensure effective invoicing monitoring ? We answer all your questions, on the way!

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In summary:

A credit note allows you to partially or completely cancel an issued invoice, by recognizing an amount due to the customer;
Unlike the classic invoice which requires payment and increases turnover, the credit note corrects a transaction and reduces turnover;
Just like the sales invoice, it must include a certain number of mandatory details;
Indy supports you in your invoicing: With our software you are guaranteed to issue compliant invoices!
What is a credit note?


Definition
A credit note or credit invoice is an accounting document used to partially or completely cancel an invoice already issued.

Issued by the supplier for its customer, the credit note indicates a negative amount which constitutes an acknowledgement of debt. It indicates that the professional acknowledges owing an amount to its customer due to a service not performed, a product not delivered or a return of goods.

Did you know? By September 1, 2026, all companies will have to be able to receive their invoices (sales and credit notes) electronically. To learn more about the electronic invoicing reform, click here !