The SME Playbook: Your InvoiceNow Readiness Checklist

Digital checklist illustration symbolising SME readiness for InvoiceNow adoption.

Paper trails, late payments, and manual data entry — these are headaches every SME knows too well. But here’s the good news: getting started with InvoiceNow is simpler than it looks. With the right steps, you can send your first digital invoice in days, not weeks.

The InvoiceNow Readiness Checklist

Step 1: Confirm your system
Check if your accounting or ERP software is InvoiceNow-ready. IMDA accredits solution providers under the official InvoiceNow framework. Popular systems like Xero, SAP Business One, and Highnix ERP are already on the list — so chances are, your provider is too.

Not sure where you stand? The easiest way is to book a demo with Highnix ERP — we’ll walk you through the process and make sure you’re fully compliant without the guesswork.

Step 2: Get on the network
Registration isn’t a separate chore — your software provider will help connect you directly to Singapore’s Nationwide E-invoicing Network (PEPPOL). Once connected, you’re ready to start sending.

Step 3: Test with your first invoice
Choose a customer who’s already InvoiceNow-ready and send a test invoice. Many SMEs report successfully sending their first InvoiceNow invoice within days of setup.

Step 4: Smoothen your payment flow
If your bank supports it, link InvoiceNow invoices to PayNow for instant settlement. This cuts down on reconciliation headaches and reduces cashflow delays.

Step 5: Bring your partners along
The real value comes when more partners are onboard. Encourage your regular customers and suppliers to join the network — the more connections, the greater the efficiency.

Step-by-step roadmap showing the five stages for SMEs to get ready for InvoiceNow.

 Common Roadblocks & Fixes 

“My vendor isn’t ready.”
That’s okay — you can still enjoy the benefits by sending InvoiceNow invoices to those who are ready, while continuing with PDF invoices for others.

“My accounting system is outdated.”
Consider upgrading to an InvoiceNow-supported system. The investment pays off in time savings and smoother workflows — and there may even be grants available to support your adoption.

“It sounds too technical.”
Don’t worry — setup is done within your existing software. You don’t need to manage a separate platform or learn complicated tools.

 A Quick Case Snapshot

ABC Trading registered through their accounting software on Monday and sent their first InvoiceNow invoice by Friday. Their customer received it instantly, without needing manual entry. Within just one week, their finance team reported saving hours of retyping and checking invoices.

For SMEs, results like these show how quickly InvoiceNow delivers value once you’re onboard. The next step is choosing a solution that’s both certified and SME-friendly.

 Ready to Take the First Step?

The sooner you get started, the sooner you’ll reduce errors, improve cashflow, and save time on invoicing.

Ready to try your first InvoiceNow invoice? Book a free Highnix ERP demo through SmartBiz today. 

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Written by Germaine Tan

Making transformation less scary and more human, helping SMEs navigate digital change without the jargon.