Invoicing commissions as a business introducer: what a clear and compliant invoice must include

At Rétines, our business introducer program is built on a clear, fair, and well-structured framework. This means that for every successful collaboration, a commission invoice must be issued. But to keep things running smoothly, that invoice needs to contain the right elements. In this article, we take a closer look at what a commission invoice should include, how it differs from a standard invoice, and how to simplify its management to avoid mistakes or delays.

1. What an invoice must generally include

Every invoice, whether it relates to a service, a product, or a commission, must include the mandatory details required under the French Commercial Code and the General Tax Code. Here are the basic elements that must be clearly stated:

• Identity of the service provider (name, legal status, address, SIRET number, and the note “VAT not applicable” if exempt)
• Identity of the client (company name, address, SIRET number)
• Unique and sequential invoice number
• Date of invoice issuance
• Details of the service (title, description, quantity, unit price)
• Total amount excluding VAT, applicable VAT rate, and total including VAT
• Payment terms (deadline, payment method, late payment penalties)

2. Specific mentions for a business introducer commission invoice

In the case of a commission invoice, certain elements must be added or clarified to avoid any ambiguity:

• Reference to the signed business introducer contract (date, clause, or contract number)
• Name of the final client introduced (the one who signed with the company thanks to the introducer)
• Nature of the mission: introduction, lead generation, etc.
• Basis for calculating the commission (contract amount excl. VAT, percentage applied)
• Period covered (e.g., “commission on the service invoiced from March 15 to April 30, 2025”)
• Confidentiality clause if specified in the initial agreement

These details allow the company to directly link the invoice to the business relationship initiated by the introducer, and to justify payment to its accounting team or an auditor if required.

3. Tips for effective commission invoice management

To avoid delays, disputes, or oversights, it’s best to adopt a rigorous process from the start:

• Prepare a standardized invoice template with the specific mentions ready to fill in
• Systematically archive the introducer contract and link each invoice to the relevant clause
• Track due dates in a spreadsheet or shared tracking tool with the client
• Ensure your legal status allows you to issue invoices (micro-entrepreneur, company, etc.)
• Send your invoice as soon as the contract conditions are met (often upon payment by the final client)

A good invoice is, above all, a tool for transparency. It formalizes the introduction, acknowledges its value, and secures the relationship for both parties.

Conclusion

At Rétines, we place great importance on the quality of our partnerships. That includes rigorous, clear, and structured invoicing. Properly invoicing a commission isn’t just an administrative step, it’s a professional gesture that reflects the seriousness of the collaboration and aligns recognition with the real value provided.