Need free or affordable invoicing software? Discover Cashfeed free for one month.

As a small business or freelancer, you're looking for the most cost-efficient way to manage your invoices. With the upcoming e-invoicing requirement starting in 2026, a choice is necessary.

But is free always better? In this guide, we compare free invoicing tools with smart, affordable alternatives like Cashfeed AI.

Free invoicing software vs. a smart investment

Why free tools seem like a good choice at first glance

Free invoicing software seems like the obvious choice for startups and small businesses. There are no monthly fees, no long contracts, and you can start invoicing right away. For many entrepreneurs just starting out and sending only a few invoices per month, this feels like the most responsible option.

Free tools often offer basic functionality such as creating invoices, tracking customer data, and simple reporting. These features are usually sufficient for very small businesses that want to keep their administration simple.

The Reality of Free: The Limits on Billing and Features

The reality of free invoicing software, however, is more complex. Most free tools have strict limits on the number of invoices you can send per month, often only 5 to 10. Once your business grows, you'll need to upgrade to a paid version.

Moreover, free versions often lack essential features like automatic reminders, advanced reporting, integrations with accounting software, or collaborative features for multiple users. As a result, you spend a lot of time on manual tasks that could be automated, and they try to lure you into a paid plan. When you're not paying for the product, you are often the product. Or is your data?

The hidden cost of manual labor and the need for Peppol

The biggest hidden cost of free software is your time. Manually entering data, sending reminders, and tracking payments takes hours each month. For an entrepreneur earning €50 per hour, this means that even half an hour of extra work per month costs more than a paid software solution.

Moreover, a good tool not only saves you time, but also your accountant's (paid) time. Investing in an affordable software package will likely pay for itself many times over.

With the introduction of the Peppol requirement starting in 2026, there are also technical requirements that most free tools don't support. You'll have to invest in software that supports e-invoicing anyway, making the "free" period merely a temporary solution.

Affordable and easy invoicing software with Cashfeed

1 month free, then only €8/month

Cashfeed offers the best of both worlds: you can try it free for a full month with no obligations. After the trial period, you pay just €8 per month for access to all features, with no hidden costs. If you process a larger volume of invoices, the €24.50 per month subscription is probably best suited to your needs.

That investment pays for itself just by saving you time on your first invoice. Customers report a 5-10x time savings compared to manual processes or basic free tools.

Core features of our invoicing program

Cashfeed distinguishes itself through its focus on automation and ease of use. The software automatically converts all invoice formats to the required XML format for Peppol, ensuring you're ready for the e-invoicing requirement starting in 2026.

OCR (text recognition) technology ensures that incoming PDF invoices are automatically processed and included in your accounting system. This means you don't have to manually retype data, regardless of the format suppliers submit their invoices in. As a result, both Peppol and non-Peppol invoices are always digitally read immediately. This way, Cashfeed only displays real-time insights.

The system integrates seamlessly with popular accounting packages and offers workflow support for invoice approval. Everything is neatly logged and searchable, which is especially useful during audits or when looking up historical data.

Automatic WhatsApp & Mailbox scanner

A unique feature of Cashfeed is its automatic inbox scanner, which searches for invoices and receipts. You can also submit receipts via WhatsApp. The AI ​​technology ensures that all relevant financial documents are automatically retrieved and correctly classified in your accounting system.

How AI solves the downsides of free software

Traditional invoicing software requires you to manually enter all the data and manage processes. AI technology like that in Cashfeed turns this process around: instead of you operating the software, the software works for you.

The AI ​​recognizes patterns in your invoicing behavior, automatically suggests the correct VAT rates, and detects discrepancies that require your attention. This prevents errors and saves time, while also ensuring a consistent and professional appearance for your invoices.

Moreover, the AI ​​learns from your working methods and the system becomes increasingly accurate over time. Functions that require manual configuration in other software are performed automatically by Cashfeed based on your previous choices and behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best invoicing software for a small SME in Belgium?

For small SMEs in Belgium, the best invoicing software is a solution that both covers current needs and is prepared for the e-invoicing requirement from 2026. Cashfeed was specifically developed for the Belgian market and fully supports the Peppol network, but also helps you process PDF documents—an estimated 10 to 20% of all invoices in the near future.

The software offers all essential features for €8 per month, with no limits on the number of users. Its AI capabilities provide automation normally found only in expensive enterprise solutions, but now accessible to small businesses.

Can I use invoicing software without an accountant?

Yes, modern invoicing software like Cashfeed is designed to be used even without an accountant or accounting background. AI technology helps accurately classify expenses and apply the correct VAT rates.

However, for more complex tax issues and annual accounts, the advice of an accountant remains invaluable. Cashfeed integrates well with accounting firms, allowing you to combine the benefits of both worlds: daily autonomy and professional advice where needed.

How does AI invoicing software actually save me time?

AI invoicing software like Cashfeed saves time by automating repetitive tasks. The WhatsApp integration and email scanner automatically retrieve all your invoices and receipts from your inbox, the OCR technology automatically reads PDF invoices, and the AI ​​suggests the correct booking categories.

Customers report that tasks that used to take 30 minutes are now completed in 3 minutes. Over the next month, this will save you many hours, which you can then spend on your core business instead of administration.

Is Cashfeed difficult to implement?

No, Cashfeed is designed for easy implementation. Setup takes just two minutes, and most users can send and receive their first invoices immediately after registration.

Ready to discover how Cashfeed can transform your invoicing? Start your free trial today and experience the difference smart automation can make for your business.